Phytochemical innovations in oral cancer therapy: targeting oncogenic pathways with natural compounds

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Natural Products Chemistry

Background:

• Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) presents a significant global health challenge with high mortality and limited conventional treatment options.
• Conventional therapies for OSCC are often hampered by drug resistance, recurrence, and systemic toxicity, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review preclinical evidence on the therapeutic potential of natural phytochemicals for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) treatment.
• To explore the mechanisms of action, efficacy, and delivery systems of phytochemicals in preclinical OSCC models.

Main Methods:

• A narrative review of recent preclinical studies (in vitro and in vivo) investigating phytochemicals for OSCC.
• Synthesis of data on phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and terpenoids.
• Evaluation of nanotechnology-based delivery systems for enhancing phytochemical efficacy.

Main Results:

• Phytochemicals exhibit anticancer effects in OSCC models via apoptosis induction, oxidative stress modulation, immunoregulation, and metastasis inhibition.
• Preclinical studies demonstrate cytotoxicity and tumor-suppressive properties of various phytochemicals.
• Nanotechnology enhances phytochemical bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy, addressing delivery challenges.

Conclusions:

• Natural phytochemicals hold translational promise as alternative or complementary agents for OSCC management.
• Further clinical validation is crucial to address pharmacokinetic limitations, potential off-target effects, and limited clinical trial data.
• Integrating phytochemicals into OSCC treatment requires overcoming current preclinical limitations and conducting robust clinical trials.