Phytocompounds and Nanoformulations for Anticancer Therapy: A Review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Conventional cancer treatments have significant limitations, including toxicity and drug resistance.
• Plant-derived natural products (phytocompounds) exhibit promising anticancer properties with lower toxicity.
• Challenges such as poor solubility and bioavailability hinder the clinical application of phytocompounds.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review phytocompounds and their nanoformulations with demonstrated antitumor activities.
• To examine the mechanisms of action of phytocompounds against various cancers.
• To discuss the advantages of nanoformulations in overcoming phytocompound delivery limitations.

Main Methods:

• Review of in vitro and in vivo studies on selected phytocompounds and their nanoformulations.
• Analysis of intracellular pathways involved in phytocompound anticancer effects.
• Examination of clinical translation challenges for phytocompounds and nanoformulations.

Main Results:

• Phytocompounds like curcumin, resveratrol, and quercetin show significant in vitro and in vivo anticancer activity.
• Nanoformulations enhance the solubility, stability, and targeted delivery of these compounds.
• Nanoformulations improve the therapeutic efficacy of phytocompounds against diverse cancers.

Conclusions:

• Phytocompounds and their nanoformulations represent a promising strategy for novel anticancer therapies.
• Overcoming formulation and delivery challenges is crucial for clinical success.
• Further research is needed to bridge the gap between preclinical findings and clinical application.