Natural Compounds as Potential Therapeutics for Pancreatic Cancer: A Narrative Review

Pancreatic cancer is a highly lethal malignancy with a low 5-year survival rate. This review focuses on natural compounds as potential therapeutics for it. Different types of natural compounds, such as polyphenols, saponins, and alkaloids, have shown anti-pancreatic cancer effects, including inhibiting tumor cell growth, inducing apoptosis, and preventing angiogenesis. They also have indirect impacts on pancreatic cancer through influencing the gut microbiota, glucose and lipid metabolism, and the endocrine system. Additionally, Chinese herbal medicines containing these compounds show promise in clinical applications. However, challenges such as target identification and low bioavailability persist. Future research trends involve interdisciplinary collaboration and the use of advanced technologies to overcome these issues.