Anticancer natural products from the Middle East and North Africa: biodiversity, mechanisms, and translational challenges
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By
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Razane Hamiyeh
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Zahraa Salhab
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Hisham F. Bahmad
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Antoine G. Abou Fayad
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Wassim Abou-Kheir
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July 6, 2026
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Clinical Scorecard: Natural Anticancer Compounds from the MENA Region: Diversity, Mechanisms of Action, and Challenges in Translation
At a Glance
| Category | Detail |
|---|
| Condition | Cancer |
| Key Mechanisms | Natural products exhibit cytotoxic, antiproliferative, pro-apoptotic, anti-angiogenic, anti-metastatic, and immunomodulatory activities. |
| Target Population | Individuals with cancer, particularly in the MENA region. |
| Care Setting | Oncology and cancer research. |
Key Highlights
- Natural products from the MENA region show promise as anticancer agents.
- Mechanisms of action include modulation of oncogenic signaling networks.
- Technological innovations are reshaping natural product discovery.
- MENA-derived compounds may complement existing cancer treatments.
- The region is a biodiverse reservoir of potential therapeutic agents.
Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Management
Monitoring & Follow-up
Risks
Patient & Prescribing Data
Patients with various types of cancer.
Natural compounds may provide alternative therapeutic modalities.
Clinical Best Practices
- Utilize interdisciplinary collaborative research for NP discovery.
- Implement ethically governed bioprospecting frameworks.
- Focus on translational development pipelines for anticancer agents.
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