Plant-Based Products Originating from Serbia That Affect P-glycoprotein Activity

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Natural Product Chemistry
• Oncology

Background:

• P-glycoprotein (P-gp) plays a crucial role in multidrug resistance (MDR) in cancer therapy.
• Modulating P-gp activity is a key strategy to overcome MDR and improve treatment outcomes.
• Natural products offer a promising source of P-gp modulators.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of plant-derived natural products, particularly from Serbia, on P-gp activity.
• To explore the potential of these natural products in overcoming cancer multidrug resistance.
• To discuss the role and regulation of P-gp in cancer therapy.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review focusing on P-gp modulation by natural products.
• Analysis of research findings on specific classes of compounds including sesquiterpenoids, diterpenoids, chalcones, riccardins, and diarylheptanoids.
• Inclusion of studies on plant-derived products from Serbia and their P-gp inhibitory potential.

Main Results:

• Identified 55 natural products and their derivatives with the ability to modulate P-gp activity.
• Highlighted specific plant genera from Serbia rich in P-gp modulating compounds (e.g., Artemisia, Curcuma, Salvia, Glycyrrhiza).
• Demonstrated the potential of these natural products in reversing cancer cell resistance to chemotherapy.

Conclusions:

• Plant-derived natural products, especially those from Serbia, represent a valuable resource for developing novel strategies against cancer MDR.
• Further research into these compounds could lead to new therapeutic agents or adjuncts for cancer treatment.
• Targeting P-gp with natural products offers a promising avenue for enhancing the efficacy of existing cancer therapies.