Progress in research on the role and mechanism of phytochemicals in inhibiting the onset and development of
colorectal tumors
1Fan Qunbin,1Cai Dieyi,2Qin Liqiang
1Department of Nutrition Suzhou Jiulong Hospital Shanghai Jiaotong University Suzhou Jiangsu 215028 China
2
School of Public
Health Suzhou University Suzhou Jiangsu 215031 China
Abstract：Colorectal cancer CRC is the third most common tumor worldwide. Phytochemicals naturally occurring in plants
have emerged as a research focus in colorectal cancer CRC due to their potential anti - tumor activities. Numerous studies have
demonstrated that phytochemicals such as polyphenols e. g. resveratrol soy isoflavones catechin sulfur-containing compounds
and quinones e. g. allicin isothiocyanate and terpenoids e. g. phytosterols can inhibit the initiation and progression of CRC
through diverse molecular mechanisms. These mechanisms involve the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation induction of apoptosis and
autophagy anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and modulation of tumor immune microenvironment metabolic reprogramming
and gut microbiome homeostasis. Furthermore certain phytochemicals can enhance the sensitivity of CRC to chemotherapy and
radiotherapy while mitigating their associated side effects. However the clinical application of phytochemicals for CRC management
faces challenges including unclear mechanisms low bioavailability unobvious dose - dependent effects and concerns regarding
long-term safety. Future research should integrate methodologies such as artificial intelligence novel drug delivery systems structural
optimization and precision medicine. Furthermore high - quality randomized controlled clinical trials should be used to verify the
potential effects of phytochemicals in the prevention and adjuvant therapy of CRC.
1范群斌,1 蔡蝶仪,2 秦立强. 植物化合物抑制结直肠肿瘤发生发展的作用及机制研究进展[J]. 肿瘤代谢与营养电子杂志, 2025, 12(5): 516-523.
1Fan Qunbin,1Cai Dieyi,2Qin Liqiang. Progress in research on the role and mechanism of phytochemicals in inhibiting the onset and development of
colorectal tumors. Electron J Metab Nutr Cancer, 2025, 12(5): 516-523.
