Exploring Structure-Activity Relationships: Discovering the Anticancer Potential of Dietary Bioactive Constituents: A Mini-Review.

Abstract

Cancer is the leading cause of mortality worldwide. It encompasses a spectrum of malignancies that include lung, stomach, colon, prostate, liver, and skin cancers depending on the organ it affects. Epidemiological evidence indicates that regular consumption of cruciferous vegetables leads to a 10-20% reduction in the risk of lung, breast, and colorectal cancers and bioactive dietary constituents. The lipophilic character of phytochemicals facilitates membrane permeability and selective target engagement, underscoring their pharmacological relevance. Daily dietary intake introduces varying amounts of bioactive constituents that can act as preventive agents, thereby improving human health. In this review, we discuss the therapeutic potential of selected dietary natural products, focusing on cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, β-glucan, gingerol, shogaol, curcumin, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Strong scientific literature studies support the role of these compounds in targeting key molecular pathways, including the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, caspase-3 activation, and Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (STAT) signaling. Bioavailability, dosing, and safety profiles remain challenges, particularly in ensuring that these factors do not hinder therapeutic efficacy. Analyzing the pharmacophoric features and discussing their potential for structural optimization leads to the development of clinical candidates in the market. Combination therapy of plant-derived bioactive compounds with anticancer drugs has improved patient outcomes in many studies, leading to the development of natural product-assisted therapeutics in the future.