Therapeutic Potential and Cancer Cell Death-Inducing Effects of Apigenin and Its Derivatives

Cancer remains one of the leading global health challenges, driving extensive research into natural dietary compounds with potential preventive and therapeutic benefits. This review data from preclinical research on the significance of a diet abundant in flavonoids in reducing cancer risk. An increasing number of experimental studies suggest that flavonoids play a protective role by modulating diverse mechanisms associated with cancer, including carcinogen activation, cellular signaling, cell cycle control, inflammation, angiogenesis, and oxidative damage. The aim of this review is to discuss apigenin and its related forms, focusing on their therapeutic potential. It explores the biological effects of apigenin and its sugar-based derivatives, along with evidence from studies suggesting their possible role in cancer prevention. Apigetrin, a glycoside form of apigenin found in many foods and medicinal herbs, shows several health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, pain-relieving, and brain-protective effects. The article highlights recent advancements in research on the anti-tumor properties of apigenin, vitexin, and apigetrin, along with their potential mechanisms. It provides a comprehensive summary of their anticancer actions, offering insights and references for cancer treatment strategies. Results obtained from both cell-based and animal studies indicate that apigenin, vitexin, and apigetrin possess protective effects against cancer development, demonstrating anticancer activity by promoting apoptosis and/or autophagy.