Title:Molecular Mechanisms of Sanguinarine in Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Volume: 23
Issue: 7
Author(s): Asmat Ullah*, Najeeb Ullah, Touseef Nawaz and Tariq Aziz*
Affiliation:
- School of Pharmacy, Health Science Center, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, 710061, P.R. China
- School of Engineering, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, 310024, China
Keywords:
Sanguinarine, cancer, natural agent, nanoparticle, molecular target, chemo-preventive effects.
Abstract: Historically, natural plant-derived drugs received a great impact of consideration in the treatment of several
human-associated disorders. Cancer is a devastating disease and the second most cause of mortality. Sanguinarine
(SANG), a naturally isolated plant alkaloidal agent, possesses chemo-preventive effects. Several studies have revealed
that SANG impedes tumor metastasis and development by disrupting a wide range of cell signaling pathways and its
molecular targets, such as BCL-2, MAPKs, Akt, NF-κB, ROS, and microRNAs (miRNAs). However, its low chemical
stability and poor oral bioavailability remain key issues in its use as a medicinal molecule. A novel method (e.g., liposomes,
nanoparticles, and micelles) and alternative analogs provide an exciting approach to alleviate these problems
and broaden its pharmacokinetic profile. Cancer-specific miRNA expression is synchronized by SANG, which has also
been uncertain. In this critical study, we review the utilization of SANG mimics and nano-technologies to improve its
support in cancer. We focus on recently disclosed studies on SANG anti-cancer properties.
