Molecular mechanisms and adjuvant therapeutic potential of α-mangostin in cervical cancer

BACKGROUND: Cervical cancer remains a significant global health challenge for women. Conventional treatments, including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, are frequently limited by side effects and the development of drug resistance. OBJECTIVE: This review synthesizes the therapeutic potential of α-mangostin in cervical cancer, with particular emphasis on its anticancer properties and underlying molecular mechanisms. METHODS: We searched Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science Core Collection, and ScienceDirect for preclinical and clinical studies on α-mangostin in cervical cancer, and the retrieved evidence was critically evaluated and summarized narratively. RESULTS: α-Mangostin exhibits multiple anticancer effects in cervical cancer. It induces apoptosis, suppresses proliferation, modulates key signaling pathways, downregulates the human papillomavirus (HPV) oncogenes E6 and E7, and reverses chemoresistance. CONCLUSIONS: Although these findings position α-mangostin as a promising adjuvant candidate for cervical cancer, the evidence remains preclinical. Dedicated clinical trials are needed before any therapeutic claim can be made, but continued investigation may ultimately help improve treatment outcomes and address the rising mortality associated with this disease.