Himalayan flora: targeting various molecular pathways in lung cancer

Med Oncol. 2023 Oct 3;40(11):314. doi: 10.1007/s12032-023-02171-x.

Abstract

The fatal amplification of lung cancer across the globe and the limitations of current treatment strategies emphasize the necessity for substitute therapeutics. The incorporation of phyto-derived components in chemo treatment holds promise in addressing those challenges. Despite the significant progressions in lung cancer therapeutics, the complexities of molecular mechanism and pathways underlying this disease remain inadequately understood, necessitating novel biomarker targeting. The Himalayas, abundant in diverse plant varieties with established chemotherapeutic potential, presents a promising avenue for investigating potential cures for lung carcinoma. The vast diversity of phytocompounds herein can be explored for targeting the disease. This review delves into the multifaceted targets of lung cancer and explores the established phytochemicals with their specific molecular targets. It emphasizes comprehending the intricate pathways that govern effective therapeutic interventions for lung cancer. Through this exploration of Himalayan flora, this review seeks to illuminate potential breakthroughs in lung cancer management using natural compounds. The amalgamation of Himalayan plant-derived compounds with cautiously designed combined therapeutic approaches such as nanocarrier-mediated drug delivery and synergistic therapy offers an opportunity to redefine the boundaries of lung cancer treatment by reducing the drug resistance and side effects and enabling an effective targeted delivery of drugs. Furthermore, additional studies are obligatory to understand the possible derivation of natural compounds used in current lung cancer treatment from plant species within the Himalayan region.

Keywords: Himalayan plants; Lung cancer; Molecular targets; Phytocompounds; Signaling pathways.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Phytochemicals / pharmacology
  • Phytochemicals / therapeutic use
  • Plants

Substances

  • Phytochemicals