The Role of Pomegranate (Punica granatum) in Cancer Prevention and Treatment: Modulating Signaling Pathways From...

Punica granatum, commonly known as pomegranate, is a traditional medicinal agent owing to its antiquity. The scientific literature has shown that pomegranate extracts exhibit favorable modulation of diverse signaling pathways. These pathways encompass those implicated in inflammation, angiogenesis, hyperproliferation, cellular transformation, tumorigenesis initiation, and ultimately, a reduction in advanced metastasis and tumorigenesis. Pomegranate extracts in this context can be attributed to their high polyphenol content, which has been observed to possess inhibitory properties toward specific signaling pathways associated with cancer. As a formidable pathology, cancer is the most significant cause of death worldwide after cardiovascular disease. The annual incidence of cancer-related mortality has increased progressively. Modifying one's dietary patterns, engaging in regular physical exercise, and maintaining an optimal body mass index are three straightforward measures that an individual may undertake to mitigate their susceptibility to cancer. Incorporating diverse vegetables and fruits into one's dietary regimen exhibits promising potential for preventing a minimum of 20% cancer incidence and approximately 200,000 cancer-related mortalities annually. Vegetables and fruits contain high levels of minerals and phytochemicals, which help alleviate and prevent the harmful effects of cancer. These substances are safe and exhibit minimal toxicity in biological systems. Furthermore, they exhibit antioxidant properties and have garnered extensive approval for their use as nutritional supplements. Pomegranates are used in ancient cultures to prevent and treat various diseases. Extensive research on pomegranate extract, fruit, oil, and juice has revealed promising findings regarding their potential anti-proliferative, anti-tumorigenic, and anti-inflammatory properties through the modification of various signaling pathways related to cancer, thus demonstrating their potential as drugs to prevent and treat cancer. Emerging research indicates that pomegranate can potentially prevent and treat different cancers, including prostate, bladder, breast, skin, lung, and colon cancer.