Plant-Derived Polyphenols in Cancer Therapy: Bridging Molecular Mechanisms and Bioavailability Toward Clinical...

Area of Science:

• Phytochemistry and Molecular Oncology
• Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

• Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality, necessitating safer and more effective treatments.
• Plant-derived polyphenols (e.g., flavonoids, curcumin) exhibit potent anticancer activities against various cancers.
• These compounds target critical molecular pathways involved in cancer initiation, progression, and metastasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular mechanisms of plant-derived polyphenols in cancer.
• To analyze pharmacokinetic limitations hindering their clinical application.
• To explore advanced delivery strategies enhancing polyphenol efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies on polyphenols and cancer.
• Analysis of molecular targets and signaling pathways affected by polyphenols.
• Evaluation of various nano-delivery systems for polyphenols.

Main Results:

• Polyphenols modulate key cancer pathways like PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and NF-κB.
• Poor bioavailability and pharmacokinetics limit polyphenol therapeutic efficacy.
• Nanocarriers (nanoparticles, liposomes, nanoemulsions, phytosomes) improve polyphenol stability, bioavailability, and tumor targeting.

Conclusions:

• Plant-derived polyphenols possess significant anticancer potential.
• Overcoming pharmacokinetic challenges through advanced delivery systems is crucial for clinical translation.
• Further clinical studies are needed to integrate polyphenols into oncology practice.