Potencial bioativo dos produtos naturais de origem vegetal frente ao câncer de mama induzido por dmba em ratas wistar: uma revisão integrativa

Abstract

Cancer is a disease that is difficult to define, but its main characteristic is the uncontrolled growth of cells. Among the various types of cancer, the most common form of breast cancer originates from epithelial cells of the breast and is characterized by cellular alterations such as disordered proliferation and loss of differentiation, resulting in significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Research using murine models of mammary carcinomas, induced by DMBA in rats, has been highly relevant due to the anatomical and functional similarities with the female human breast. Given the need for effective and less aggressive therapies, natural products of plant origin have been investigated as alternatives to conventional treatments. This study, through an integrative literature review, analyzed the influence of natural products on reducing DMBA-induced damage in a murine model of breast cancer. Based on the analysis of 15 articles, it was observed that plant extracts reduced tumor incidence, volume, and mass, as well as decreased levels of the tumor marker Ca 15-3. In the context of oxidative stress, six studies reported a reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, while ten studies showed increased activity of catalase (CAT) and ten studies demonstrated an increase in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, confirming the antioxidant effects of natural compounds. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory activity was assessed, with five studies reporting a reduction in inflammatory cytokines, including IL-6, IL-1β, TNF-α, IFN-γ, and IL-12. The extracts also demonstrated histological protective effects, promoting the preservation of mammary architecture, reducing tumor aggressiveness, increasing lymphocytic infiltration, and, in four studies, decreasing hyperplasia, proliferation, and ductal dilation. Thus, reinforcing the efficacy of plant compounds in mitigating DMBA-induced damage, both in the mammary parenchyma and in the organs involved in its metabolism.