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Nature-Inspired Strategies in Cancer Management: The Potential of Plant Extracts in Modulating Tumour Biology

Marcin Hołota1, Małgorzata M Posmyk1

  • 1Department of Plant Ecophysiology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, Banacha 12/16, 90-237 Lodz, Poland.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|July 29, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Plant extracts offer promising anticancer properties, acting through various mechanisms to combat cancer and reduce chemotherapy side effects. Further research is needed to integrate these natural compounds into cancer therapy safely and effectively.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Phytochemistry

Background:

  • Cancer remains a leading global cause of death with significant unmet needs in treatment.
  • Conventional cancer therapies often have limitations, including incomplete eradication of cancer cells and severe side effects.
  • There is a growing interest in natural compounds, particularly phytochemicals from plant extracts, as potential therapeutic agents.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review plant extracts with demonstrated anticancer properties.
  • To explore the diverse mechanisms of action of these plant extracts, including proapoptotic, antiproliferative, antiangiogenic, and immunomodulatory effects.
  • To discuss the potential of plant extracts in mitigating chemotherapy side effects and their future prospects in cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific articles on plant extracts and their anticancer activities.
  • Analysis of studies detailing the mechanisms of action of phytochemicals.
  • Examination of research on the supportive role of plant extracts in cancer therapy and side effect management.

Main Results:

  • Numerous plant extracts exhibit significant anticancer properties through various biological pathways.
  • Certain plant-derived compounds show efficacy in reducing the adverse effects associated with chemotherapy.
  • The review highlights the potential of plant extracts as complementary agents in cancer treatment strategies.

Conclusions:

  • Plant extracts represent a valuable resource for developing novel anticancer strategies and supportive care.
  • Further research is essential to address challenges related to safety, quality, purity, and precise dosing for clinical application.
  • Integrating phytochemicals into cancer therapy could enhance treatment outcomes and patient quality of life, necessitating a balanced approach between natural medicine and conventional standards.
Keywords:
antiangiogenic activityantiproliferative activitycancerimmunomodulatory activityphytochemicalsplant extractsproapoptotic activityrevised hallmarks of cancer

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