Targeting activator protein 1 signaling pathway by bioactive natural agents: Possible therapeutic strategy for cancer prevention and intervention

Abstract

Activator protein 1 (AP-1) is a key transcription factor in the control of several cellular processes responsible for cell survival proliferation and differentiation. Dysfunctional AP-1 expression and activity are involved in several severe diseases, especially inflammatory disorders and cancer. Therefore, targeting AP-1 has recently emerged as an attractive therapeutic strategy for cancer prevention and therapy. This review summarizes our current understanding of AP-1 biology and function as well as explores and discusses several natural bioactive compounds modulating AP-1-associated signaling pathways for cancer prevention and intervention. Current limitations, challenges, and future directions of research are also critically discussed.

Keywords: Activator protein 1; Apoptosis; Caffeic acid (PubChem CID: 689043); Cancer; Curcumin (PubChem CID: 969516); Inflammation; Isohamnetin (PubChem CID: 15817847); Kaempferide (PubChem CID: 5281666); Natural compounds; Quercetin (PubChem CID: 5280343); Resveratrol (PubChem CID: 445154); Viscolin (PubChem CID: 16079989).