Molecular insight into apoptosis mediated by flavones in cancer (Review)

Apoptosis, a vital component of normal cell growth and development is characterized by diverse morphological characteristics. The evasion of apoptosis is an important hallmark of cancer; thus, the ability to induce apoptosis and suppress cell growth is a promising therapeutic approach and a highly active area of cancer research. Although chemotherapeutics can be used to achieve this, their use is associated with high levels of toxicity. Hence, focus is being shifted towards plant-based compounds due to their low toxicity, easy availability and affordability. Flavonoids, a subclass of polyphenols, have attracted attention as potential anticancer candidates due to their ability to induce apoptosis and thus, to reduce cellular proliferation specifically in cancer cells. Several pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins have been identified, although their exact modes of action have yet to be elucidated. Therefore, research continues to focus on the pathways followed by key proteins involved in cell cycle progression and apoptosis. This arena of apoptosis research has been moving forward at a remarkably rapid pace. The aim of the present review was to provide an overall summary of the presently available data on the modulation of the process of apoptosis by flavones in different types of cancer.