Nutraceuticals and Cancer: Potential for Natural Polyphenols

Abstract

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death globally, associated with multifactorial pathophysiological components. In particular, genetic mutations, infection or inflammation, unhealthy eating habits, exposition to radiation, work stress, and/or intake of toxins have been found to contribute to the development and progression of cancer disease states. Early detection of cancer and proper treatment have been found to enhance the chances of survival and healing, but the side effects of anticancer drugs still produce detrimental responses that counteract the benefits of treatment in terms of hospitalization and survival. Recently, several natural bioactive compounds were found to possess anticancer properties, capable of killing transformed or cancerous cells without being toxic to their normal counterparts. This effect occurs when natural products are associated with conventional treatments, thereby suggesting that nutraceutical supplementation may contribute to successful anticancer therapy. This review aims to discuss the current literature on four natural bioactive extracts mostly characterized by a specific polyphenolic profile. In particular, several activities have been reported to contribute to nutraceutical support in anticancer treatment: (1) inhibition of cell proliferation, (2) antioxidant activity, and (3) anti-inflammatory activity. On the other hand, owing to their attenuation of the toxic effect of current anticancer therapies, natural antioxidants may contribute to improving the compliance of patients undergoing anticancer treatment. Thus, nutraceutical supplementation, along with current anticancer drug treatment, may be considered for better responses and compliance in patients with cancer. It should be noted, however, that when data from studies with bioactive plant preparations are discussed, it is appropriate to ensure that experiments have been conducted in accordance with accepted pharmacological research practices so as not to disclose information that is only partially correct.

Potential Properties of Natural Nutraceuticals and Antioxidants in Eye Protection

“…In order to address and solve this problem, one could imagine the formation of a single liquid form, hydrophobic, through appropriate chemical reactions [243][244][245][246] and administered as eye drops [247,248]. With this method of formulation two important limits could be avoided: the degrading action in the gastrointestinal system and the bioavailability of the compounds following digestion [249][250][251]. Second of all, the total antioxidant potential of the mixture should be calculated, which is not necessarily equal to the sum of that of the individual components [252][253][254].…”

Female infertility and diet, is there a role for a personalized nutritional approach in assisted reproductive technologies? A Narrative Review

“…(166). They are considered relatively safe and inexpensive compared to other chemical agents and are even thought to be effective in modifying the course of some disorders like breast cancer, cervical cancer, and ovarian cancer (167).…”

Mitochondria Bioenergetic Functions and Cell Metabolism Are Modulated by the Bergamot Polyphenolic Fraction

“…Furthermore, a higher lipid content and a reduced escape of calcium ions from the reticulum have been reported [20]. Furthermore, the BPF could be added to drug therapy in the treatment of patients with cancer [21]. In rats, the BPF has been shown to reduce chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, acting on mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia, both of which are determined by paclitaxel treatment.…”