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Luteolin as a Cancer Therapeutic: From Preclinical Evidence to Translational Potential

Sreemoyee Mitra1, Priya Manna2, Dipanjan Karati3

  • 1Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga, Punjab, India.

Chemistry & Biodiversity
|August 15, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Luteolin, a plant-derived flavonoid, shows significant anticancer potential by targeting key cellular processes. This research explores its chemistry, pharmacology, and nanoformulations for improved cancer therapy, highlighting preclinical evidence and translational prospects.

Area of Science:

  • * Natural Product Chemistry
  • * Pharmacology and Toxicology
  • * Cancer Biology and Therapeutics

Background:

  • * Cancer remains a leading global cause of mortality, driving the search for novel, less toxic therapeutic agents.
  • * Flavonoids, particularly luteolin (3',4',5,7-tetrahydroxyflavone), are gaining attention for their potential anticancer properties.
  • * Existing chemotherapy limitations necessitate research into alternative treatments with improved safety profiles.

Purpose of the Study:

  • * To review contemporary research on luteolin's anticancer potential, focusing on preclinical data and translational applications.
  • * To elucidate the chemistry, structure-activity relationships, extraction methods, and pharmacological activities of luteolin.
  • * To explore luteolin's mechanisms of action, nanoformulation strategies, and overall therapeutic prospects in cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

  • * Comprehensive literature review of preclinical studies on luteolin's anticancer effects.
  • * Analysis of luteolin's chemical properties, extraction techniques, and structure-activity relationships.
  • * Investigation into luteolin's pharmacological activities and mechanisms of action, including effects on apoptosis, angiogenesis, migration, and cell cycle.

Main Results:

  • * Luteolin exhibits anticancer properties by targeting critical cellular processes like apoptosis, angiogenesis, migration, and cell cycle progression.
  • * The study details luteolin's chemistry, extraction, structure-activity relationships, and pharmacological actions.
  • * Advancements in nanoformulation strategies for luteolin are explored, enhancing its therapeutic delivery and efficacy.

Conclusions:

  • * Luteolin demonstrates significant potential as a cancer therapeutic agent, supported by extensive preclinical evidence.
  • * Further research and development, particularly in nanoformulation, are crucial for translating luteolin's potential into clinical applications.
  • * Luteolin represents a promising natural compound for developing safer and more effective cancer treatments.

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