Evaluation of the anticancer properties of the phytochemicals present in <em>Annona muricata</em>

Abstract

Cancer is a complex disease characterized by the unrestrained proliferation and dissemination of abnormal cells. The issue continues to be a notable public health concern on a global scale, with millions of new cases and fatalities being reported annually. Despite significant advances in cancer treatment, it remains a major challenge due to the high cost and toxicity of current therapies. Phytochemicals naturally found in plants are crucial resources for developing novel drugs and potential cancer therapies. The clinical efficacy of these anti-cancer agents has been demonstrated against diverse neoplastic cell lines. Additional investigation in this field can result in improved cancer therapies. Among many other plants effective against cancer, this literature review explores the anti-cancer properties of Annona muricata, a plant commonly known as soursop, which is a tropical plant species native to Central and South America, the Caribbean, and West Africa known for its edible fruit which has some medicinal merits, but also some toxicological effects. Annona muricata has been traditionally used for medicinal purposes, including cancer treatment. Acetogenins, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, and other active compounds are only a few of the phytochemicals that this review cites as being present in A. muricata. The review also looks into A. muricata’s biological abilities to fight lung, liver, prostate, colon, pancreas, and breast cancers. The toxicity of A. muricata and possible adverse effects are also covered in the review. The review also looks at the usage of nanoparticles with A. muricata as a cancer treatment. Overall, this literature review provides valuable insights into the potential anti-cancer properties of A. muricata and its potential as a therapeutic agent in cancer treatment.