Effects of Naringenin in Preclinical Models of Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women, with approximately one in eight women developing the disease during their lifetime. Despite advancements in current treatment options, breast cancer was responsible for an estimated 670,000 deaths worldwide in 2022. This highlights the urgent need for the development of novel therapeutic strategies. Historically, plant-derived compounds have played a significant role in cancer therapy, exemplified by widely used chemotherapeutic agents such as paclitaxel and docetaxel. In recent years, increasing attention has been directed toward novel plant-derived compounds as potential anti-cancer agents. Among these, Naringenin, a flavonoid predominantly found in citrus fruits, has shown promising antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. This review highlights recent studies investigating the effects of Naringenin and its derivatives on breast cancer. Evidence from both in vitro and in vivo animal models suggests that Naringenin may exert anti-tumor activity by inhibiting cell proliferation, promoting apoptosis, modulating key cell signaling pathways, and enhancing radio-sensitivity in breast cancer cells. Although preclinical evidence strongly supports the anticancer potential of Naringenin in breast cancer, comprehensive clinical studies are urgently needed to validate its efficacy and safety in humans.