The Promise of Piperine in Cancer Chemoprevention

Abstract

Cancer, characterized by the unregulated growth and dissemination of malignantly transformed cells, presents a significant global health challenge. The multistage process of cancer development involves intricate biochemical and genetic alterations within target cells. Cancer chemoprevention has emerged as a vital strategy to address this complex issue to mitigate cancer’s impact on healthcare systems. This approach leverages pharmacologically active agents to block, suppress, prevent, or reverse invasive cancer development. Among these agents, piperine, an active alkaloid with a wide range of therapeutic properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects, has garnered attention for its potential in cancer prevention and treatment. This comprehensive review explores piperine’s multifaceted role in inhibiting the molecular events and signaling pathways associated with various stages of cancer development, shedding light on its promising prospects as a versatile tool in cancer chemoprevention. Furthermore, the review will also delve into how piperine enhances the effectiveness of conventional treatments such as UV-phototherapy and TRAIL-based therapy, potentially synergizing with existing therapeutic modalities to provide more robust cancer management strategies. Finally, a crucial perspective of the long-term safety and potential side effects of piperine-based therapies and the need for clinical trials is also discussed.

Natural Chalcones and Derivatives in Colon Cancer: Pre-Clinical Challenges and the Promise of Chalcone-Based Nanoparticles

“…Another study delved into chemoprevention, which has become important as a promising strategy to disrupt cancer initiation and progression [ 47 ]. Various compounds, including minerals, vitamins, phytochemicals, and synthetic substances, have been recognized as potential chemopreventive agents [ 48 ]. In this context, GAR treatment was explored for its impact on the molecular mechanisms related to apoptosis and migration in HT-29 colon cancer cells.…”

“…The cancer resistance mechanism involves the overexpression of efflux pumps in cancer cells [ 48 , 61 ]. Efflux pumps can actively remove drugs from the intracellular environment, reducing their intracellular concentrations [ 62 ].…”

Flavonoids and Flavonoid-Based Nanoparticles for Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis Management

“…The interest in natural products, particularly phytochemicals, has gained prominence due to their perceived safety and potential efficacy in addressing the complexities of OA and RA [5]. Among these, flavonoids, with their diverse anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activities, have emerged as compelling candidates for further investigation [5][6][7][8][9]. Nevertheless, there are challenges in terms of their bioavailability and targeted delivery.…”

Molecular Aspects of Piperine in Signaling Pathways Associated with Inflammation in Head and Neck Cancer

“…In this context, studies indicate that piperine can modulate various molecular targets, such as: receptors and enzymes (prostaglandin E2 receptors, cyclooxygenase 2 and matrix metalloproteinases MMPs), kinases (including the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, ERK1/2 and p38), inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, IL-8 and IF-y), inflammatory mediators such as JNK, AP-1 (activator protein 1), iNOS (nitric oxide synthase) and gene expression modulators (miRNAs) [8][9][10].…”