Piperine as a modulator of cancer hallmarks: mechanistic insights and therapeutic potential

Background Cancer processing relies on a range of biological capabilities referred to as cancer hallmarks. There is growing interest in natural bioactive compounds that have the potential to modulate these hallmarks. Piperine, an alkaloid isolated from Piper nigrum and Piper longum , has shown various biological effects, including anticancer activity in preclinical studies. Methods The present review summarizes in vitro and in vivo studies regarding the impact of piperine on various cancer attributes. The available Literature was thoroughly analyzed to identify evidence for the molecular basis by which piperine modulates cell growth, apoptosis, angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis, inflammation, and oxidative stress in various types of cancer. Discussion The compound has been shown to inhibit the proliferation of various cancer cell lines and may enhance the effectiveness of conventional chemotherapy agents by improving drug bioavailability and reducing resistance. Moreover, piperine may target several hallmarks of cancer that influence cancer progression and metastasis, including angiogenesis, sustained proliferation, genomic instability, resistance to cell death, immune evasion, and disrupted redox homeostasis. These multifaceted effects of piperine are believed to be mediated through the modulation of signaling pathways such as NF-κB, PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and STAT3. Although these results are encouraging, the therapeutic use of piperine is limited by its poor solubility, low bioavailability, and lack of clinical research. Conclusion Piperine is a promising multitarget compound that can influence important cancer characteristics in preclinical studies. Nevertheless, additional research is needed to overcome formulation issues, assess toxicity, and conduct well-structured clinical trials to confirm its potential as an effective anticancer treatment.