Harnessing the Power of Natural Products in Overcoming Drug Resistance in Breast Cancer

This chapter explores the use of substances, including cannabis, curcumin, resveratrol, and green tea polyphenols, in the fight against drug resistance in breast cancer treatment. As traditional therapies face increasing resistance, scientists are turning to nature’s resources for solutions. The chapter provides an analysis of compounds derived from various natural sources like plants, fungi, and marine organisms. It investigates how these compounds can overcome drug resistance mechanisms observed in breast cancer by targeting pathways such as apoptosis (cell death), cell cycle regulation, inhibition of efflux pumps (which remove drugs from cells), and angiogenesis (formation of blood vessels). Additionally, it highlights how these natural products can modify drug pathways to enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments. Through a review of research findings, this chapter explores the potential benefits of using natural products as complementary therapies to address drug resistance. Examples such as cannabis demonstrate the effectiveness of phytocannabinoids; curcumin’s anti-inflammatory properties and resveratrol’s impact on metabolic pathways are also discussed in detail. Furthermore, this chapter examines the limitations associated with using products, including side effects, variability in potency levels between different sources or batches, and challenges related to standardization and regulation. This chapter provides valuable insights into the changing landscape of breast cancer treatment and the role that natural products play in addressing one of the urgent challenges in cancer therapy today. By presenting perspectives and showcasing a range of natural compounds, it offers a comprehensive understanding of this important topic.