Exploring the therapeutic potential of natural products in modulating miRNA networks in prostate cancer

Prostate cancer (PC) is the most common cancer among men and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the USA. It remains a significant health challenge, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. It primarily manifests as adenocarcinoma, which arises from glandular cells in the prostate gland, located below the bladder. While many men may not experience symptoms in the early stages, as the disease progresses, symptoms can include difficulty urinating, erectile dysfunction, and pelvic or back pain. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small, non-coding RNA molecules, typically consisting of 21 to 23 nucleotides, that play a vital role in regulating gene expression. miRNAs are found across a variety of organisms, including plants, animals, and some viruses. Their primary function is to modulate the expression of target genes, thereby influencing numerous biological processes such as development, differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis. Natural compounds such as curcumin, ellagitannin, diindolylmethane, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), resveratrol, genistein, luteolin, capsaicin, and berberine have been shown to modulate miRNA expression in PC, contributing to their anticancer effects. These compounds influence the expression of both tumor-suppressor and oncogenic miRNAs, thereby impacting critical pathways related to cell proliferation, apoptosis, and metastasis. Recent studies indicate that the deregulation of miRNA networks plays a critical role in cancer progression, and natural compounds have emerged as potential modulators of these pathways. Through a comprehensive literature survey, we identified various phytochemicals that exhibit anticancer properties by influencing miRNA expression. These natural agents can alter miRNA levels through direct binding, epigenetic modifications, or interaction with proteins involved in miRNA biogenesis. The findings underscore the potential of integrating natural agents into therapeutic approaches for PC, paving the way for innovative miRNA-targeted treatments. This review not only elucidates the molecular mechanisms underlying the health benefits of natural compounds but also highlights their promise in developing effective cancer therapies.