Caspase‐driven cancer therapies: Navigating the bridge between lab discoveries and clinical applications

• Published in: Cell biochemistry and function Vol. 42; no. 2; pp. e3944 - n/a
• Main Authors: Allani, Meghana, Akhilesh, Tiwari, Vinod
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Wiley Subscription Services, Inc 01.03.2024
• Subjects: Anticancer properties; anticancer therapeutics; Antineoplastic drugs; Apoptosis; cancer; Cancer therapies; Caspase; Cell death; natural compounds; Regulatory mechanisms (biology); synthetic and semisynthetic compounds; natural compounds; apoptosis; cancer; synthetic and semisynthetic compounds; anticancer therapeutics; caspase
• ISSN: 0263-6484; 1099-0844; 1099-0844
• DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3944

Apoptosis is the cell's natural intrinsic regulatory mechanism of normal cells for programmed cell death, which plays an important role in cancer as a classical mechanism of tumor cell death causing minimal inflammation without causing damage to other cells in the vicinity. Induction of apoptosis by activation of caspases is one of the primary targets for cancer treatment. Over the years, a diverse range of natural, synthetic, and semisynthetic compounds and their derivatives have been investigated for their caspase‐mediated apoptosis‐induced anticancer activities. The review aims to compile the preclinical evidence and highlight the critical mechanistic pathways related to caspase‐induced cell apoptosis in cancer treatment. The focus is placed on the key components of the mechanisms, including their chemical nature, and specific attention is given to phytochemicals derived from natural sources and synthetic and semisynthetic compounds. 180+ compounds from the past two decades with potential as anticancer agents are discussed in this review article. By summarizing the current knowledge and advancements in this field, this review provides a comprehensive overview of potential therapeutic strategies targeting apoptosis in cancer cells. The findings presented herein contribute to the ongoing efforts to combat cancer and stimulate further research into the development of effective and targeted anticancer therapies. Significance statement This review examines the interplay between compounds and caspase activation, shedding light on apoptotic mechanisms in cancer. Systematically reviews the intricacies of caspase‐induced apoptosis, elucidating its relevance in the landscape of cancer therapeutics. Analyzes over 180 compounds spanning the last two decades, delineating their potential as anticancer agents. Propels the scientific research by encouraging continuous exploration of caspase‐mediated apoptosis for its pivotal role in refining cancer treatment modalities.