Leveraging the molecular insights and therapeutic potential of diet-derived-flavonoids against pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

INTRODUCTION: Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the most lethal malignancies of the gastrointestinal tract, characterized by its subtle onset, aggressive progression, and poor prognosis. Due to intrinsic resistance to drugs and high relapse rates after conventional therapies, the need to investigate alternative therapeutic approaches with improved efficacy and tolerability. METHODS: An extensive literature review was carried out through major scientific databases to spot relevant studies on different classifications of flavonoids and their anti-cancer potential in PDAC. RESULTS: Recent research demonstrates the potential of bioactive substances derived from plants, notably flavonoids, as modulators of oncogenic signaling networks with potent anti-cancer properties, such as inhibition of oxidative stress, angiogenesis, and other essential regulatory mechanisms associated with the development of tumors. Research has shown the molecular mechanisms of flavonoids across a wide range of cancer hallmarks, including inflammation, immunological modulation, redox homeostasis, cell proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, and cell cycle control. DISCUSSION: This review provides current insights into the molecular targets and signaling pathways that flavonoids influence against PDAC, making them appealing for either standalone or supplementary treatment.