Glioblastoma Multiforme: Molecular Biology and Updated Systematic Review on Natural Extract and Phytochemical Efficacy In-vitro

Abstract

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most prevalent primary malignant central nervous system tumours (CNST). Current treatment consists of surgical resection and adjuvant chemoradiotherapy, the gold-standard agent being Temozolomide (TMZ). Despite optimal treatment, GBM has an abysmal associated prognosis of approximately 15 months. The disproportionately high morbidity and mortality necessitate studies which strive to increase knowledge on putative therapeutic agents to confirm or deny their possible use against GBM Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop a deep understanding of GBM molecular biology upon which more effective therapeutic strategies may be developed. Natural extracts and phytochemicals have shown promise as potential therapeutic agents against GBM. In this review, the molecular biology of GBM and molecular factors which contribute to therapeutic resistance are discussed in depth. The mechanisms by which phytochemicals and natural extracts exhibit can inhibit GBM growth and proliferation are discussed. Moreover, statistical analysis demonstrated that natural extracts and phytochemicals may be superior to TMZ in-vitro. This review demonstrates that phytochemicals have great potential as novel therapeutic agents against GBM. Further preclinical and clinical studies are needed to determine the optimal doses, routes of administration, and potential toxicities of these agents, but their unique molecular targets and low toxicity profiles make them attractive candidates for further investigation.