Abstract
Simple SummaryHepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is globally ranked as the sixth most diagnosed cancer, and the second most deadly cancer. To worsen matters, there are only limited therapeutic options currently available; therefore, it is necessary to find a reservoir from which new HCC treatments may be acquired. The field of phytomedicine may be the solution to this problem, as it offers an abundance of plant-derived molecules, which show capabilities of being effective against HCC proliferation, invasion, migration, and metastasis. In our review, we collect and analyze current evidence regarding these promising phytochemical effects on HCC, and delve into their potential as future chemotherapies. Additionally, information on the signaling behind these numerous phytochemicals is provided, in an attempt to understand their mechanisms. This review makes accessible the current body of knowledge pertaining to phytochemicals as HCC treatments, in order to serve as a reference and inspiration for further research into this subject.Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most abundant form of liver cancer. It accounts for 75–85% of liver cancer cases and, though it ranks globally as the sixth most common cancer, it ranks second in cancer-related mortality. Deaths from HCC are usually due to metastatic spread of the cancer. Unfortunately, there are many challenges and limitations with the latest HCC therapies and medications, making it difficult for patients to receive life-prolonging care. As there is clearly a high demand for alternative therapy options for HCC, it is prudent to turn to plants for the solution, as their phytochemicals have long been used and revered for their many medicinal purposes. This review explores the promising phytochemical compounds identified from pre-clinical and clinical trials being used either independently or in conjunction with already existing cancer therapy treatments. The phytochemicals discussed in this review were classified into several categories: lipids, polyphenols, alkaloids, polysaccharides, whole extracts, and phytochemical combinations. Almost 80% of the compounds failed to progress into clinical studies due to lack of information regarding the toxicity to normal cells and bioavailability. Although large obstacles remain, phytochemicals can be used either as an alternative or integrative therapy in conjunction with existing HCC chemotherapies. In conclusion, phytochemicals have great potential as treatment options for hepatocellular carcinoma.
Highlights
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide
Further study into these compounds is much needed to help bridge the current gap between pre-clinical research and clinical application, as plants are rich in secondary metabolites that have been previously shown to be potent chemotherapeutic and/or chemopreventive agents used for numerous chronic cardiovascular, metabolic, neurodegenerative, and neoplastic diseases [26,27,28]
Several natural compounds derived from plant sources have been evaluated for their Several natural compounds derived from plant sources have been evaluated for their effectiveness as potential treatment options against hepatocellular carcinoma (Table 1)
Summary
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. According to the estimates of cancer incidence and mortality produced by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (GLOBOCAN 2020), liver cancer is ranked as the sixth most frequently diagnosed cancer, yet is ranked second in terms of mortality rate [1]. There are several types of liver cancers, which include hepatocellular carcinoma, intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, and hepatoblastoma Among these subtypes, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent [2], accounting for 75–85% of all cases of liver cancers diagnosed [3]. HCC may develop due to chronic liver diseases such as cirrhosis [8], fibrosis [9], or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) [10]. These diseases are becoming more globally prevalent, leading to the expectation that HCC rates will only continue to climb in the future. High mortality rates paired with high incidence rates reflect the reality that HCC is quickly becoming a major global health problem
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
