Quercetin's Anti-Cancer Mechanisms in Ovarian Cancer: A Systematic Review of Preclinical Evidence

Abstract

Introduction: Ovarian cancer has a high mortality rate, often due to late diagnosis and chemoresistance. Quercetin, a ubiquitous flavonoid, has shown potential as an anti-cancer agent. This review aims to systematically summarize the preclinical mechanisms of quercetin against ovarian cancer.

Methods: A comprehensive search was conducted for in-vitro and in-vivo studies investigating the effects of quercetin on ovarian cancer cell lines and animal models. Data on its impact on cell cycle, apoptosis, metastasis, and chemosensitization were extracted and synthesized.

Results: Analysis of 31 preclinical studies revealed that quercetin consistently induced cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase, promoted apoptosis via mitochondrial pathways, and inhibited cancer cell migration and invasion by downregulating matrix metalloproteinases. Furthermore, it sensitized cisplatin-resistant cells to chemotherapy.

Discussion: Quercetin targets multiple key pathways involved in ovarian cancer progression and chemoresistance. This multi-targeted action makes it a strong candidate for further development as a therapeutic or adjuvant agent.

Conclusion: Robust preclinical evidence demonstrates quercetin's multi-faceted anti-cancer activity against ovarian cancer.