Phytochemicals with anticancer activity from poisonous plants: potential leads for cancer therapy

Abstract

Despite advances in cancer treatment, the disease remains a major global health challenge, requiring innovative approaches for prevention and therapy. Phytochemicals, encompassing a vast array of secondary metabolites with therapeutic potential, have been integral to traditional medicines globally and continue to serve as sources of modern pharmaceuticals. Anticancer phytochemicals derived from poisonous plants have offered promising avenues in cancer treatment, characterized by their ability to inhibit tumor growth, induce apoptosis, and modulate critical cancer pathways. This review focuses on cytotoxic phytochemicals identified from poisonous plants, highlighting their potential as novel anticancer agents. We also discuss the chemical structures and cytotoxic activities of representative phytochemicals from poisonous plants. Future research should focus on thorough phytochemical studies to discover new anticancer phytochemicals and investigate their synergistic effects with existing therapies, thereby enhancing the range of cancer treatment options available.