Phytochemicals as an Alternative or Integrative Option, in Conjunction with Conventional Treatments for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Abstract

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most abundant form of liver cancer. It accounts for 75–85% of liver cancer cases and, though it ranks globally as the sixth most common cancer, it ranks second in cancer-related mortality. Deaths from HCC are usually due to metastatic spread of the cancer. Unfortunately, there are many challenges and limitations with the latest HCC therapies and medications, making it difficult for patients to receive life-prolonging care. As there is clearly a high demand for alternative therapy options for HCC, it is prudent to turn to plants for the solution, as their phytochemicals have long been used and revered for their many medicinal purposes. This review explores the promising phytochemical compounds identified from pre-clinical and clinical trials being used either independently or in conjunction with already existing cancer therapy treatments. The phytochemicals discussed in this review were classified into several categories: lipids, polyphenols, alkaloids, polysaccharides, whole extracts, and phytochemical combinations. Almost 80% of the compounds failed to progress into clinical studies due to lack of information regarding the toxicity to normal cells and bioavailability. Although large obstacles remain, phytochemicals can be used either as an alternative or integrative therapy in conjunction with existing HCC chemotherapies. In conclusion, phytochemicals have great potential as treatment options for hepatocellular carcinoma.

The pathogenesis of liver cancer and the therapeutic potential of bioactive substances

“…In future research, more attention should be paid to the fields of bioavailability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of biologically active substances, based on the preparation of novel drug delivery systems for use in combination with existing chemotherapeutic drugs for hepatocellular carcinoma, and artificial synthesis of new substances. Explore how more bioactive substances can be used as effective anticancer drugs, bridging the gap between preclinical research and clinical research ( Rodriguez et al, 2021 ). 7) As mentioned earlier, underlying liver diseases (such as hepatitis virus infection, alcohol abuse, or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease) occur in the majority of HCC patients, which means that most HCC cases occur in the context of chronic inflammation.…”

“…In future research, more attention should be paid to the fields of bioavailability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of biologically active substances, based on the preparation of novel drug delivery systems for use in combination with existing chemotherapeutic drugs for hepatocellular carcinoma, and artificial synthesis of new substances. Explore how more bioactive substances can be used as effective anticancer drugs, bridging the gap between preclinical research and clinical research ( Rodriguez et al, 2021 ).…”

Decoding the synergistic potential of MAZ‐51 and zingerone as therapy for melanoma treatment in alignment with sustainable development goals

“…The combined application of medicinal plants with existing cytotoxic drugs has garnered significant attention and widespread acceptance. This approach is favoured for its potential to decrease the chemotherapeutic drug dose, reduce toxicity, enhance drug bioavailability, lower resistance development and capitalise on the synergistic effects of phytochemicals and synthetic drugs to jointly inhibit tumour cell proliferation 113 …”

Unraveling the therapeutic potential of Rutin against osteosarcoma cells: Targeting TNF-α and VEGF signaling pathways

“…When focused speci cally on osteosarcoma, studies documenting the anti-cancer capabilities of plant-derived metabolites reveal a range of processes and pathways involved in creating these effects (Kazantseva et al, 2022). These phytochemicals act on several apoptotic pathways and augment the therapeutic advantages of conventional medications, they are chosen in combination therapy (Rodriguez et al, 2021). Phytochemicals from plants can impact various molecular targets, including cancer cells, causing cell cycle arrest and death through various signal transduction channels (Almatroodi et al, 2021).…”