Decoding Molecular Mechanisms of Pongamia pinnata Phytochemicals in Cancer Therapy

ABSTRACT

Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre (P. Pinnata) is commonly found in Southeast Asia and is recognized for its multiple bioactive phytochemicals with notable therapeutic potential. The phytochemicals constituents of P. pinnata showing antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐metastasis properties. In cancer therapy, the primary objective is to eliminate malignant cells effectively, with minimal damage on healthy cells. Although conventional treatment chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy effectively target cancer cells, but in the post‐treatment phase, several health complications develop. All these approaches are expensive and thus, not affordable. There is an urgent need for effective, safe, and affordable alternative for cancer management. Plant based green therapeutic approaches have emerged as promising strategies owing to their biocompatibility, sustainability, and broad spectrum of biological activity. The antioxidant phytochemicals present in P. pinnata protect healthy cells from oxidative stress and induce ROS‐mediated tumor cell death. Furthermore, flavonoid and other bioactive compounds derived from P. pinnata serve anti‐inflammatory, anti‐metastasis activities, and induce apoptosis. In this review, we comprehensively discuss the phytochemical compounds of P. p i n n a t a , the molecular mechanisms underlying its anticancer activity, its synergistic potential when combined with conventional cancer therapies, and the current challenges and future directions associated with its therapeutic development. Hopefully, this article will provide valuable insights into the anticancer potential of P. pinnata and inspire further research toward the development of green, effective, and affordable cancer therapeutics.