Cancer is the most feared disease, with more than 1.6 million cases each year. Cancer can start almost anywhere in the human body, from the uncontrollable growth and multiplication of damaged cells. Cancerous tumors can spread into the human body (a process called metastasis) as a solid form usually, but the cancers of blood generally do not. Cancer treatment includes chemotherapy, surgery and radiations. In this article we will address inorganic compounds as a source of treatment, diagnosis, carriers of active substances.

The immune system is the set of cells and organs that intervene in the body's defense against certain antigens, foreign to the body. This set includes both elements with rapid action and thus belonging to non-specific immunity, and also, elements that provide a slower response, but, with high specificity against each antigen. Nonspecific immunity sums up both cellular and humoral elements, which react quickly on foreign substances and microorganisms. On the other hand, adaptive immunity is based on the existence of lymphocytes, which develop a response, albeit slower, with a high specificity through antibodies secreted by B lymphocytes. Zinc deficiency is the second most widespread micronutrient deficiency. This compound is indispensable for the human body because it is a cofactor for many enzymes including alkaline phosphatase, dismutase superoxide, metalloproteinases. Moreover, zinc is included in the structure of growth and transcription factors and it participates in the cell communication within the immune system. Selenium is an essential trace element, being involved in many biological processes. It is part of a structural component of the amino acid selenocysteine, one of 25 selenoproteins, which are involved in the body's immune defense. Raising the awareness of iron deficiency, recent studies emphasize that it is the most common mineral deficiency worldwide. As it is already well known, iron is particularly important in the transport of oxygen, but its essential roles are not only limited to that. Besides, it is a constituent part of some metalloproteins and a cofactor for many other enzymes. Moreover, iron takes part of ATP synthesis. Therefore, the lack of iron has multiple repercussions on the whole organism, including the immune system.

Background: Cancer is the most feared disease, with more than 1.6 million cases yearly. Cancer can start almost anywhere in the human body, from the uncontrollable growth and multiplication of damaged cells. Cancerous tumors can spread into the human body (a process called metastasis) in a solid form usually, but the cancers of the blood generally do not. Methods: The review analyzes a wide range of scientific literature and research studies to assess the efficacy and mechanisms of action of different inorganic compounds in cancer therapy. It covers both preclinical and clinical studies, examining the effects of these compounds on tumor growth inhibition, apoptosis induction, and modulation of signaling pathways. Results: Cancer treatment includes chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation. In this article, we will address inorganic compounds as a source of treatment, diagnosis, and carriers of active substances. Overall, this comprehensive review highlights the diverse roles of inorganic compounds in cancer therapy. It emphasizes the importance of further research to better understand the mechanisms of action, optimize dosage regimens, and enhance the clinical efficacy of these compounds in the treatment of cancer. Conclusion: The findings presented in this review contribute to the development of innovative and effective therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment. Keywords: cancer; cisplatin; selenium; zinc; copper; gold