Humic substances enhance the anti-cancer efficacy of standard therapies

Abstract The green oncology paradigm emphasizes the use of natural products in cancer treatment to protect the environment while reducing the adverse effects associated with conventional therapies. In this context, humic substances (HSs), derived from the degradation of waste biomass, have emerged as promising candidates due to their diverse bioactive properties. Beyond their well-known antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, this study demonstrates the antitumor potential of HSs extracted from olive (HS-OL) and artichoke (HS-CYN). Our results reveal that HS-OL and HS-CYN significantly induce DNA damage by triggering apoptosis and reducing cell viability in cancer cells across various histotypes. When used in combination with standard therapies, these HSs enhance therapeutic efficacy, enabling the use of lower doses of chemotherapeutic agents while maintaining their effectiveness. The introduction of HSs into cancer treatment represents a sustainable and innovative approach that not only reduces the ecological footprint but also minimizes the side effects associated with traditional anticancer drugs, offering a dual benefit for both patients and the environment.