Resveratrol for Cancer Radio-Sensitization: Ready for Prime Time or Future Perspective

Resveratrol, a flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, shows therapeutic potential in metabolic, neurological, cardiovascular, viral, allergic, and inflammatory diseases. Preclinical studies demonstrate its mechanisms, including modulation of oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways, while clinical trials suggest benefits in anti-cancer and cardioprotective applications. Resveratrol modulates inflammatory and survival pathways by inhibiting ROS production and suppressing NF-κB and JAK/STAT signaling through the prevention of key phosphorylation and nuclear translocation events. Concurrently, it affects metabolic signaling via AMPK-dependent inhibition of mTOR, leading to altered transcriptional activity. However, inconsistent clinical outcomes and potential side effects, such as gastrointestinal discomfort (e.g., nausea, diarrhea) and drug interactions at high doses, highlight significant limitations. This study reviews clinical data on the effects of resveratrol on disease-specific biomarkers, emphasizing its potential as an adjunct in cancer radiotherapy. The variability in efficacy and safety underscores the need for well-designed clinical trials to validate therapeutic benefits and assess risks. To address these gaps, we propose a comprehensive framework for future research, incorporating standardized methodologies, optimized dosing regimens, and rigorous safety evaluations. This framework aims to clarify resveratrol's efficacy, address its safety concerns, and facilitate its clinical application. By providing a structured roadmap for future investigations, this study seeks to balance the understanding of resveratrol's therapeutic potential with its limitations, paving the way for evidence-based clinical use.