Chrysin targets aberrant molecular signatures and pathways in carcinogenesis (Review)

One of the most extensively used herbal medicines is chrysin, a naturally occurring flavone commonly detected in several natural products, including propolis and honey. Due to its various biological properties, such as antioxidant, anti‑estrogenic, anti‑inflammatory, anti‑allergic, antibacterial and anticancer activities, chrysin has emerged as the leading contender for health benefits. Amongst the several pharmacological effects exhibited by chrysin, its anticancer activity is the most attractive. Several studies have demonstrated that chrysin suppresses tumor progression in cell lines and animal models by inducing apoptosis, disrupting the cell cycle and inhibiting migration without generating toxicity or undesired side‑effects in normal cells. Furthermore, chrysin also inhibits multi‑drug resistant proteins and is effective in combination therapy. The present review comprehensively discusses the research developments in the understanding of the potential of chrysin as a potent anticancer agent achieved by modulating various cell targets and signaling pathways involved in inflammation, cell survival, apoptosis, growth, angiogenesis, invasion and metastasis.