Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC): Signalling pathways-Role of plant-based inhibitors

Abstract

This review paper highlights and updates the role of plant based inhibitors in controlling the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) via blocking the TNBC signalling pathways. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. There are several identified types, among which the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most fatal for patients. Conventionally, the triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is defined by the lack of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and human epidermal receptor 2 (HER2) in breast cancer cells. It is well-known for its metastatic, aggressive characteristics and poor outcome in the clinic. Till today, the treatment of TNBC patients is still a challenging task due to the absence of appropriate targets for drugs. Despite the successes of emerging targeted therapies, relapse, recurrence, and therapy failure rates in TNBC significantly outpace other subtypes of breast cancer. Mounting evidence suggests an accumulation of therapy resistant, Cancer Stem Cell (CSC) populations within TNBCs contributes to poor clinical outcomes. These Cancer Stem Cells (CSC) are enriched in TNBC compared to non-TNBC breast cancers. Approximately 60% of drugs currently used for cancer treatment have been isolated from natural products. Natural plant based products are a well-known treasure house for the development of novel anticancer drugs. Many plant-derived natural compounds have anti-cancer properties, including berberine quercetin, formononetin, calycosin, polyphenols, bioflavonoids, carotene, vitamins, and andminerals. Many plant-derived natural compounds, including vinka alkaloids, vinblastine and vincristine, luteolin, α-mangostin, piperine, silibinin, apigenin, quercetin, fisetin, resveratrol, genistein, 10-gingerol, chalcones, curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate, cyanidin-3-O-glucoside, and glycyrrhizin, have shown anti-cancer properties, especially in the treatment of TNBCs. Therefore, more human clinical trial data is warranted for further evaluation of plant extracts for the treatment of TNBCs.