Probing the biological efficacy and mechanistic pathways of natural compounds in breast cancer therapy via the Hedgehog signaling pathway.
10.1016/j.jpha.2024.101143
- Author:
Yining CHENG
1
;
Wenfeng ZHANG
2
;
Qi SUN
1
;
Xue WANG
2
;
Qihang SHANG
3
;
Jingyang LIU
4
;
Yubao ZHANG
1
;
Ruijuan LIU
5
;
Changgang SUN
2
Author Information
1. College of First Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, China.
2. College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, China.
3. College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, 250014, China.
4. State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, and Faculty of Chinese Medicine, Macau University of Science and Technology, Taipa, Macao SAR, 999078, China.
5. Department of Oncology, Weifang Traditional Chinese Hospital, Weifang, Shandong, 261000, China.
- Publication Type:Review
- Keywords:
Breast cancer;
Hedgehog signaling pathway;
Natural compounds
- From:
Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis
2025;15(4):101143-101143
- CountryChina
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Breast cancer (BC) is one of the most prevalent malignant tumors affecting women worldwide, with its incidence rate continuously increasing. As a result, treatment strategies for this disease have received considerable attention. Research has highlighted the crucial role of the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway in the initiation and progression of BC, particularly in promoting tumor growth and metastasis. Therefore, molecular targets within this pathway represent promising opportunities for the development of novel BC therapies. This study aims to elucidate the therapeutic mechanisms by which natural compounds modulate the Hh signaling pathway in BC. By conducting a comprehensive review of various natural compounds, including polyphenols, terpenes, and alkaloids, we reveal both common and unique regulatory mechanisms that influence this pathway. This investigation represents the first comprehensive analysis of five distinct mechanisms through which natural compounds modulate key molecules within the Hh pathway and their impact on the aggressive behaviors of BC. Furthermore, by exploring the structure-activity relationships between these compounds and their molecular targets, we shed light on the specific structural features that enable natural compounds to interact with various components of the Hh pathway. These novel insights contribute to advancing the development and clinical application of natural compound-based therapeutics. Our thorough review not only lays the groundwork for exploring innovative BC treatments but also opens new avenues for leveraging natural compounds in cancer therapy.
