Exploring alkaloids and flavonoids from natural sources: Emerging natural agents for inhibiting cervical cancer progression through apoptosis induction, anti-inflammatory effects, and oxidative stress reduction

Cervical cancer stands as one of the major causes which result in death due to cancer in female patients all over the world. The treatment measures such as chemotherapy and radiations are still producing unfavourable side effects that are also limiting their efficacies in treatment. The capability of alkaloids and flavonoid to target cellular mechanisms that lead to the development of cancer cells has been investigated through research studies. This review study evaluates the mechanism of action of alkaloids in combination with flavonoids derived in various plant species to prevent the progression of cervical cancer. The bioactive constituents exhibit appealing therapeutic effects as they induce apoptosis and reduce inflammation and neutralize oxidative stress. Berberine and sanguinarine alkaloids as well as quercetin and kaempferol flavonoid exhibit cervical cancer cells-damaging apoptotic effects and inhibit inflammation by regulating inflammatory cytokines and strengthening antioxidant defense. The capability of these compounds to modulate PI3K/Akt and NF-kB and MAPK and p53 signaling pathways implies that they can be developed into non-toxic therapeutic options to be used in cases of cervical cancer. Mechanistic insights and clinical evidence of the use of alkaloids and flavonoids in the management of cervical cancer are reviewed and their suitability as natural products in cancer therapeutic intervention considered.