Natural Compounds as Epimodulators in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Epithelial ovarian carcinoma (EOC) is a lethal gynecologic neoplasm often diagnosed at late stages.
• Current treatments for EOC face challenges including resistance and side effects, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.
• While natural products have yielded cancer drugs, their potential in targeting EOC epigenetics remains underexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review in vitro and in vivo findings on phytochemicals targeting epigenetic mechanisms in ovarian cancer over the past twelve years.
• To identify the potential of plant-derived molecules as epigenetic drugs (epidrugs) for EOC.
• To highlight the gap between basic research and clinical application of these natural compounds.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies published in the last 12 years.
• Analysis of in vitro and in vivo data on phytochemical actions.
• Focus on epigenetic targets and mechanisms of action in ovarian cancer.

Main Results:

• Phytochemicals demonstrate activity against ovarian cancer through various mechanisms, including epigenetic modulation.
• Evidence suggests plant-derived compounds can influence key epigenetic targets relevant to EOC.
• A significant gap exists in translating these findings into clinical applications for EOC treatment.

Conclusions:

• Plant-derived molecules hold promise as novel epidrugs for epithelial ovarian carcinoma.
• Further research is crucial to bridge the gap between preclinical findings and clinical translation.
• Targeting epigenetic modifications in EOC with natural compounds represents a potential new therapeutic avenue.