Anticancer Efficacy of Gingerol in Breast Cancer: Chemoprevention, Drug Synergism, and Nano-Formulations

Breast cancer is the most prevalent type of carcinoma among women worldwide and is the primary cause of cancer-related mortality. It is one of the most challenging cancers to manage and constitutes a significant proportion of cancer-related fatalities. The rising incidence of breast cancer necessitates the pursuit of more effective treatments. Due to the association of most chemotherapeutic medications with drug resistance, cancer recurrence, and adverse effects, researchers are exploring more effective alternatives, such as natural chemicals for the treatment and prevention of breast cancer. Chemoprevention using chemicals derived from plants has become a viable and accessible method for managing and controlling cancer. Among the numerous phytochemicals exhibiting an extensive range of biochemical and pharmacologic properties, gingerols have been documented to be efficacious in inhibiting the transformation, hyperproliferation, and inflammatory mechanisms that commence and foster carcinogenesis, along with the subsequent stages of carcinogenesis, angiogenesis, and metastasis. The chemotherapeutic potential of gingerol has been shown in several in vitro and in vivo studies. Clinical research has also documented the effectiveness of gingerol in cancer management. This review seeks to explore the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of gingerol with a primary emphasis on breast cancer therapy. This study aimed to highlight gingerol potential in addressing breast cancer and to inform future research pathways for the development of natural product-derived therapies.