Abstract (EN):
Every day, new molecules with antineoplastic potential
are discovered. Unfortunately, most of these molecules
lack cell-type specificity, and are unable to kill tumor
cells any more efficiently than normal cells. Also, a high
number of those molecules are very toxic. In order to
design more effective chemotherapeutic drugs, it is important
to understand the interaction between novel
molecules and biological systems. Certain cellular components
are particularly relevant in the context of specific
targeting and mechanisms of action. Mitochondria
are not only the major source of cell energy but are also
important in the control of processes that culminate in
apoptotic cell death. Particular aspects of mitochondrial
physiology (e.g. the negative transmembrane electric
potential) facilitate selective targeting by anti-cancer
molecules. Such mitochondria-specific drugs are referred
to as ‘mitocans’. Among potential mitocans, phenolic
acids are attractive candidates. Plant-derived phenolic
compounds are widely consumed in a normal diet, especially
in fruits and vegetables. Besides their antioxidant
properties, phenolic acids have been reported to display
antiproliferative activity by promoting selective induction
of tumor cell apoptosis. In some cases, the molecule acts
by triggering the mitochondrial pathway for apoptosis.
Here we review the potential role of several phenolic
acids and derivatives as anti-cancer agents, highlighting
the role of mitochondria as a primary subcellular target
for this class of compounds. The present review intends to raise awareness for this promising direction of research.
Idioma:
Inglês
Tipo (Avaliação Docente):
Científica
Contacto:
pauloliv@ci.uc.pt