Functional Significance and Implications of Phyto-Oxylipins as Potential Anti-Cancer Agents

Objective Phyto-oxylipins are lipid molecules produced in plants by the oxidative transformation of unsaturated fatty acids via diverse metabolic pathways. Recently, the chemical diversity and functional significance of oxylipins is gaining significant attention. However, the functional significance of these compounds as anti-cancer agents remains largely uncharacterized. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive synthesis and analysis of the functional significance of plant oxylipins as anti-cancer agents to facilitate their exploitation in drug discovery and development. Methods This review was based on a thorough compilation and analysis of research work carried out on biological significance and implications of plant-derived anti-cancer oxylipins. Curation of data was based on several databases and resources such as Scopus, PubMed, DrugBank and PubChem. Within the context of the scope and subject matter as guided by the objective, no exclusion and inclusion criteria were necessarily employed in the screening of articles. Results The present review explores the origins, anti-cancer properties and functional mechanisms of phyto-oxylipins. The potential functional significance of new and poorly characterized plant oxylipins have also been highlighted. The prospects of plant oxylipins in research, medicine and biotechnology that could optimize their potential are also explored. Insights into the promising avenues that may originate from innovative therapeutic approaches are also discussed. Conclusion Despite the rich source of oxylipins in plants, much of their potential as therapeutic agents for cancer treatment remains to be fully established. Clinical investigations are also needed to determine safe doses and effective delivery methods. Research into phyto-oxylipins require significant attention due to the promise it may hold in addressing key challenges in biotechnology, health, and environmental sustainability.