Anticancer potential of hydroxycinnamic acids: mechanisms, bioavailability, and therapeutic applications

Fatma Duygu Ceylan, Deniz Günal-Köroğlu, Beyza Saricaoglu, Gulay Ozkan, Esra Capanoglu*, Daniela Calina*, Javad Sharifi-Rad*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Hydroxycinnamic acids (HCAs) are plant compounds with anticancer potential due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, apoptosis-inducing, and proliferation-inhibiting effects. This review aims to consolidate and analyze current knowledge on the anticancer effects of HCAs, exploring their mechanisms of action, bioavailability challenges, and potential therapeutic applications. A comprehensive literature search on PubMed/MedLine, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar focused on the anticancer properties, mechanisms, bioavailability, and safety profiles of HCAs. Studies have shown that HCAs, such as caffeic acid, ferulic acid, and sinapic acid, inhibit the growth of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo and sensitize cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. These effects are mediated by mechanisms including the inhibition of cell survival pathways, modulation of gene expression, and induction of oxidative stress and DNA damage. Additionally, several studies have demonstrated that HCAs exhibit selective toxicity, with a higher propensity to induce cell death in cancerous cells compared to normal cells. However, the toxicity profile of HCAs can vary depending on the specific compound, dosage, and experimental conditions. The anticancer properties of HCAs suggest potential applications in cancer prevention and treatment. However, it is essential to distinguish between their use as dietary supplements and therapeutic agents, as the dosage and formulation suitable for dietary supplements may be insufficient for therapeutic purposes. The regulatory and practical implications of using HCAs in these different contexts require careful consideration. Further research is needed to determine appropriate dosages, formulations, long-term effects, and regulatory frameworks for HCAs as both dietary supplements and therapeutic agents.

Original languageEnglish
JournalNaunyn-Schmiedeberg's Archives of Pharmacology
DOIs
Publication statusAccepted/In press - 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2024.

Keywords

  • Anticancer
  • Apoptosis
  • Chemoprevention
  • Hydroxycinnamic acids
  • Molecular mechanisms

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