What is it about?
This review discusses recent advances in the design of hybrid products derived from the natural polyphenols curcumin (Cur) and resveratrol (Res), both known for their multifunctional anticancer properties. The concept of “hybrid strategy” is presented in two complementary forms: hybrid molecules, where pharmacophoric groups from Cur and Res are incorporated into new chemical entities; hybrid nanosystems, particularly gold nanoparticle–based carriers engineered to deliver Cur or Res—or both—to cancer cells. The review highlights efforts to improve solubility, stability, and bioavailability of these polyphenols while exploiting their ability to act on multiple cellular targets relevant to tumor growth.
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Why is it important?
Curcumin and resveratrol show promising anticancer activities but are limited by poor pharmacokinetic profiles. Hybrid strategies offer a way to overcome these drawbacks by enhancing delivery, targeting, and multifunctional interactions. Combining these polyphenols within hybrid materials creates opportunities for synergistic effects, targeted drug delivery, and integration with photothermal or photodynamic modalities. These approaches are especially relevant for complex, multigenic diseases such as cancer, where multi‑target activity and controlled localization can improve therapeutic outcomes while limiting systemic toxicity.
Perspectives
Although promising, most Cur‑ and Res‑based hybrid systems have only been tested in vitro, with limited in vivo studies conducted in animal models. Translation to clinical application remains challenging due to issues of reproducibility, scale‑up, safety, and cost. The review emphasizes the need to carefully evaluate pharmacokinetics, potential side effects, and biocompatibility, especially when bioavailability is strongly enhanced. Future directions include defining mechanisms of action, improving targeted delivery systems responsive to tumor microenvironment cues (e.g., pH, NIR light), and developing more clinically relevant models to verify efficacy and safety. Hybrid products based on natural polyphenols hold significant promise for oncology but require rigorous validation before therapeutic use.
Prof. Antonio Speciale
University of Messina
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Natural Product-Based Hybrids as Potential Candidates for the Treatment of Cancer: Focus on Curcumin and Resveratrol, Molecules, July 2021, MDPI AG,
DOI: 10.3390/molecules26154665.
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