Modulation of inflammatory signaling pathways by phytochemicals in ovarian cancer

Genes Nutr. 2011 May;6(2):109-15. doi: 10.1007/s12263-011-0209-y. Epub 2011 Feb 4.

Abstract

Inflammation has been suggested to be involved in cancer development and progression. Many clinical and experimental studies have shown that inflammation could contribute to ovarian carcinogenesis through activation of the NF-κB and AP-1 pathways by chronic inflammatory mediators. Phytochemicals, which are natural compounds derived from fruits and vegetables, have shown anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. Due to their relatively low toxicity and easy accessibility, phytochemicals have been investigated for their chemopreventive potential against various cancers. In this review, we discuss the role of phytochemicals in preventing ovarian cancer through anti-inflammatory mechanisms.