Flavonoids, including fisetin, have been linked to a reduced risk of
colorectal cancer (CRC) and have potential therapeutic applications for
the condition. Fisetin, a natural flavonoid found in various fruits and
vegetables, has shown promise in managing CRC due to its diverse
biological activities. It has been found to influence key cell signaling
pathways related to inflammation, angiogenesis, apoptosis, growth
factors, and transcription factors. The results of this study
demonstrate that fisetin induces colon cancer cell apoptosis through
multiple mechanisms. It impacts the p53 pathway, leading to increased
levels of p53 and decreased levels of MDM2, contributing to apoptosis
induction. Fisetin also triggers the release of important components in
the apoptotic process, such as Smac/DIABLO and cytochrome c.
Furthermore, fisetin inhibits the COX2 and Wnt/EGFR/NF-ĸB signaling
pathways, reducing Wnt target gene expression and hindering colony
formation. It achieves this by regulating the activities of CDK2 and
CDK4, reducing Rb phosphorylation, decreasing cyclin E levels, and
increasing p21 levels, ultimately influencing E2F-1 and CDC2 protein
levels. Additionally, fisetin has various effects on CRC cells,
including inhibiting the phosphorylation of YB-1 and RSK, promoting the
phosphorylation of ERK1/2, and disrupting the repair process of DSBs.
Moreover, fisetin serves as an adjunct therapy for the prevention and
treatment of PIK3CA-mutant CRC, resulting in a reduction of PI3K
expression, AKT phosphorylation, mTOR activity, and downstream target
proteins in CRC cells with a PIK3CA mutation. These findings highlight
the multifaceted potential of fisetin in managing CRC and position it as
a promising candidate for future therapy development.