Stilbenes: A Promising Class for Triple Negative Breast Cancer Treatment

Cancer Biology, Natural Medicine

Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer defined by the absence of hormone receptors, which presents significant therapeutic challenges. Constituting approximately 10-20% of breast cancer cases, particularly in younger women, TNBC is associated with rapid progression, elevated recurrence rates, and a heightened propensity for metastasis. Current treatment modalities, including chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgical interventions, often lead to substantial adverse effects, thereby necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic strategies. Stilbenes, a class of naturally occurring polyphenolic compounds, have garnered attention for their potential as therapeutic agents against TNBC due to their diverse biological activities, particularly their anticancer properties. Among these, resveratrol is the most extensively investigated, with notable concentrations found in grapes, berries, and red wine. This review comprehensively examines the chemical properties of stilbenes, their multifaceted mechanisms of action—including antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory effects, and modulation of critical signaling pathways (NF-κB, PI3K/Akt, and Wnt/β-catenin)—and summarizes findings from preclinical studies. By juxtaposing stilbenes with existing treatment modalities, we elucidate their potential advantages and the obstacles to clinical implementation. Ultimately, this review aims to provide insights into the viability of stilbenes as innovative and effective therapeutic options for TNBC, thereby advancing the pursuit of improved patient outcomes.

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