Synergistic Interactions of Anthraquinones with Conventional Cancer Therapies

Background: Cancer is a major public health concern, and conventional treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy are associated with several disadvantages, including chemoresistance, toxicity, and economic burden to the family of cancer patients. Thus, discovery of novel agents of natural agents to reduce these side effects is crucial. A series of studies have shown anthraquinones as a promising adjuvant in enhancing the effectiveness of standard cancer therapies. Objective: This review explores the anticancer potential of anthraquinones and their role in enhancing standard chemotherapy. Methodology: Various freely available databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar and Web of Science were searched for updated and relevant information on anthraquinones and their use as an adjuvant with standard chemotherapeutic agents. Results: In this article, we looked at the recent developments in the utilization of anthraquinones as adjuvants in chemotherapy. Further, we have elaborated the mechanism of action that anthraquinones target to chemosensitize the drug-resistant cancer cells. Conclusion: This review provides updated information on emerging role and their potential to be utilized as adjuvants in augmenting the efficacy of conventional cancer therapies.