Research Progress of Indole Alkaloids: Targeting MAP Kinase Signaling Pathways in Cancer Treatment

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Cancer is a major global health concern, with the Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway playing a crucial role in cancerous diseases. Indole alkaloids, such as vincristine and evodiamine, have been extensively studied for their potential in cancer treatment. These naturally occurring indole alkaloids have strong anticancer properties, and research is ongoing to develop new anticancer small molecules. The current review aims to evaluate how indole alkaloids affect the MAPK signaling pathway in cancer treatment and focus on advancements in the role of indole alkaloids. The review also highlights clinical trials with indole alkaloids in cancer treatment. ABSTRACT: Cancer is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in people throughout the world. There are many signaling pathways associated with cancerous diseases, from which the Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway performs a significant role in this regard. Apoptosis and proliferation are correlated with MAPK signaling pathways. Plenty of experimental investigations were carried out to assess the role of indole alkaloids in MAPK-mediated cancerous diseases. Previous reports established that indole alkaloids, such as vincristine and evodiamine are useful small molecules in cancer treatment via the MAPK signaling system. Indole alkaloids have the anticancer potential through different pathways. Vincristine and evodiamine are naturally occurring indole alkaloids that have strong anticancer properties. Additionally, much research is ongoing or completed with molecules belonging to this group. The current review aims to evaluate how indole alkaloids affect the MAPK signaling pathway in cancer treatment. Additionally, we focused on the advancement in the role of indole alkaloids, with the intention of modifying the MAPK signaling pathways to investigate potential new anticancer small molecules. Furthermore, clinical trials with indole alkaloids in cancer treatment are also highlighted.