The Role of Natural and Semi-Synthetic Compounds in Ovarian Cancer: Updates on Mechanisms of Action, Current Trends and Perspectives.

Ovarian cancer represents a major health concern for the female population: there is no obvious cause, it is frequently misdiagnosed, and it is characterized by a poor prognosis. Additionally, patients are inclined to recurrences because of metastasis and poor treatment tolerance. Combining innovative therapeutic techniques with established approaches can aid in improving treatment outcomes. Because of their multi-target actions, long application history, and widespread availability, natural compounds have particular advantages in this connection. Thus, effective therapeutic alternatives with improved patient tolerance hopefully can be identified within the world of natural and nature-derived products. Moreover, natural compounds are generally perceived to have more limited adverse effects on healthy cells or tissues, suggesting their potential role as valid treatment alternatives. In general, the anticancer mechanisms of such molecules are connected to the reduction of cell proliferation and metastasis, autophagy stimulation and improved response to chemotherapeutics. This review aims at discussing the mechanistic insights and possible targets of natural compounds against ovarian cancer, from the perspective of medicinal chemists. In addition, an overview of the pharmacology of natural products studied to date for their potential application towards ovarian cancer models is presented. The chemical aspects as well as available bioactivity data are discussed and commented on, with particular attention to the underlying molecular mechanism(s).

Exploring the potential function of trace elements in human health: a therapeutic perspective.

A trace element, known as a minor element, is a chemical element whose concentration is very low. They are divided into essential and non-essential classes. Numerous physiological and metabolic processes in both plants and animals require essential trace elements. These essential trace elements are so directly related to the metabolic and physiologic processes of the organism that either their excess or deficiency can result in severe bodily malfunction or, in the worst situations, death. Elements can be found in nature in various forms and are essential for the body to carry out its varied functions. Trace elements are crucial for biological, chemical, and molecular cell activity. Nutritional deficits can lead to weakened immunity, increased susceptibility to oral and systemic infections, delayed physical and mental development, and lower productivity. Trace element enzymes are involved in many biological and chemical processes. These compounds act as co-factors for a number of enzymes and serve as centers for stabilizing the structures of proteins and enzymes, allowing them to mediate crucial biological processes. Some trace elements control vital biological processes by attaching to molecules on the cell membrane's receptor site or altering the structure of the membrane to prevent specific molecules from entering the cell. Some trace elements are engaged in redox reactions. Trace elements have two purposes. They are required for the regular stability of cellular structures, but when lacking, they might activate alternate routes and induce disorders. Therefore, thoroughly understanding these trace elements is essential for maintaining optimal health and preventing disease.

Colon cancer and colorectal cancer: Prevention and treatment by potential natural products.

Colon cancer affects both men and women and is the world's second most significant cause of cancer-related mortality. Colon cancer death rates have risen worldwide due to the current food habit and lifestyle, which include a lot of meat, alcohol, and not enough physical exercise. As a result, novel, less harmful pharmacological treatments for colon cancer are needed now more than ever before. Colorectal cancer (CRC) affects a significant portion of the world's population. Chemotherapy's limits, as demonstrated by side effects and resistance in CRC patients, are now being sought after despite recent breakthroughs that have improved patient care and survival. Numerous chemical compounds present in medicinal herbs have shown anti-tumor and anti-apoptotic properties against various cancers, including CRC, in animal experiments. These chemicals, which come from several phytochemical families, activate several signaling pathways. This article discusses research on the anti-CRC benefits of many plants conducted in vitro, as well as the phytochemical components of plants that may play a role in the study. Researchers are also looking into the impact of these compounds on various pathways involved in cancer signaling. According to this review, anti-CRC compounds may be generated from medicinal plants. That's why we're looking at how natural items can help treat cancer while lowering the risk of developing it.