Phytochemicals as promising agents in Axl-targeted cancer treatment

Summary

This review examines natural plant compounds that can block Axl, a protein that helps cancer cells survive and spread. Scientists found that compounds from common foods like apples, grapes, green tea, ginger, and chamomile can reduce Axl levels and kill cancer cells. These natural compounds work through different mechanisms and show promise for treating various cancers, including those resistant to standard chemotherapy drugs.

Background

Axl, a receptor tyrosine kinase of the TAM family, plays critical roles in cell survival, proliferation, and migration. Its dysregulation and overexpression are implicated in various cancers, where it facilitates tumor growth, metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy, making it an attractive therapeutic target.

Objective

This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of natural compounds identified as Axl inhibitors, examining their mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential. The review seeks to advance understanding of natural compounds as viable candidates for developing effective Axl-targeted therapies.

Results

Multiple natural compounds were identified as Axl inhibitors across different chemical classes, including apigenin, luteolin, fisetin, quercetin, catechins, tryptanthrin, carvacrol, artemisinin derivatives, yuanhuadine, celastrol, and curcumin. These compounds demonstrated the ability to reduce Axl expression, inhibit phosphorylation, suppress downstream signaling pathways, and enhance apoptosis in various cancer cell lines.

Conclusion

Natural products represent promising sources for developing Axl-targeted cancer therapies, offering diverse chemical structures with potent bioactivity and relatively low toxicity. Continued research is needed to optimize bioavailability, establish clinical efficacy, and develop novel therapeutic strategies based on these natural Axl inhibitors.
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