A comprehensive review on the role of plant-derived bioactive metabolites driving ROS-mediated apoptosis in cancer

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) play a dual role in cancer, inducing cell death via oxidative stress and DNA damage.
• Natural bioactive compounds offer selective ROS modulation for cancer therapy, targeting cancer cells while sparing normal cells.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the molecular mechanisms of ROS-induced apoptosis in cancer.
• To review natural bioactive molecules with anticancer activity via ROS induction.
• To discuss therapeutic applications and clinical translation challenges of these compounds.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on ROS, apoptosis, and natural bioactive compounds.
• Analysis of molecular pathways involved in ROS-induced cancer cell death.
• Evaluation of the therapeutic potential and limitations of natural compounds.

Main Results:

• Natural compounds like polyphenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids induce apoptosis through mitochondrial damage and pathway modulation.
• These compounds show potential in enhancing standard cancer therapies and overcoming drug resistance.
• Clinical translation is challenged by issues of bioavailability, stability, and targeted delivery.

Conclusions:

• ROS-modulating natural compounds represent a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer.
• Understanding their mechanisms is key to developing effective cancer treatments.
• Further research is needed to address clinical translation challenges for these bioactive compounds.