Polymethoxylated flavonoids in citrus fruits: absorption, metabolism, and anticancer mechanisms against breast cancer

PeerJ. 2024 Jan 3:12:e16711. doi: 10.7717/peerj.16711. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Polymethoxylated flavonoids (PMFs) are a subclass of flavonoids found in citrus fruits that have shown multifunctional biological activities and potential anticancer effects against breast cancer. We studied the absorption, metabolism, species source, toxicity, anti-cancer mechanisms, and molecular targets of PMFs to better utilize their anticancer activity against breast cancer. We discuss the absorption and metabolism of PMFs in the body, including the methylation, demethylation, and hydroxylation processes. The anticancer mechanisms of PMFs against breast cancer were also reviewed, including the estrogen activity, cytochrome P-450 enzyme system, and arylhydrocarbon receptor (AhR) inhibition, along with various molecular targets and potential anticancer effects. Although PMFs may be advantageous in the prevention and treatment for breast cancer, there is a lack of clinical evidence and data to support their efficacy. Despite their promise, there is still a long way to go before PMFs can be applied clinically.

Keywords: Absorption and metabolism; Anti-breast cancer; Molecular mechanism; Polymethoxylated flavonoids.

MeSH terms

  • Citrus*
  • Estrogens
  • Flavonoids / pharmacology
  • Fruit
  • Hydroxylation
  • Neoplasms*

Substances

  • Estrogens
  • Flavonoids

Grants and funding

The authors received no funding for this research. The Xinjiang Youth Science and Technology Top-notch Talent Project-Youth Science and Technology Innovation Talent Training (2022TSYCCX0022)) paid for the APC. The funders had no role in study design, data collection and analysis, decision to publish, or preparation of the manuscript.