Molecular mechanisms of eugenol as an antitumour bioactive compound: A comprehensive review

¹ Department of Community Health, Technical Institute of Karbala, Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University, Karbala, Iraq
² Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, University of Alzahraa for Women, Karbala, Iraq
³ Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, Pécs, Hungary

^* Corresponding author: shukrya.alwan.ikr@atu.edu.iq

Abstract

The eugenol, a biologically active compound found in various plant species, has gained considerable attention in recent years for its anticancer and other medicinal properties. This review aimed at elucidating the current knowledge and the molecular mechanisms underlying eugenol’s antitumour effects. Eugenol via two pathways; intrinsic and extrinsic can induce apoptosis, cause cell cycle arrest together with its antioxidant/antiinflammatory effects against angiogenesis and metastasis. It can modulate various cellular signalling pathways as well. The most commonly reported three are: MAPK/ERK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR and JAK/STAT. These pathways, and others as well, are critical in cellular events associated with oncogenesis. Moreover, it exhibits additive effects in combination with chemotherapy agents, natural compounds and radiotherapy this increasing its therapeutic possibility. Eugenol hits a wide range of molecular targets, with involvement of various proteins (including transcription factors), genes and epigenetic modifications as well as alterations in microRNA levels, implying complex anticancer mechanisms. It also shows markedly improved therapeutic benefits with chemo-drugs, phytochemicals and radiotherapy. The complex anticancer mechanisms of which include interactions with specific proteins, genes and epigenetic modifications as well has been shown to affect microRNA regulation. Yet, and although its actions are suggested, additional investigation is required to clarify the molecular mechanisms of eugenol entirely with potential clinical applications.