Citrus Flavones Luteolin and Apigenin Target Fundamental Mechanisms in Colon Cancer

Citrus flavones appear to impact the main areas of research on cancer because of their protective effect in epidemiological and animal studies. Although flavones have been studied for over 50 years, the biological action on cellular mechanisms of cancer is still not completely deciphered. The pharmacological properties of Citrus flavones have been associated with the inhibition of enzymes, transcription factors, and signaling pathways mediating carcinogenesis and progression of colon cancer (CC). Many epidemiological studies have demonstrated that regular intake of flavones is linked to reducing the risk of CC. Luteolin and apigenin are the most abundant Citrus flavones, which exhibit more potent biological activity. Luteolin and apigenin have been shown to have good anticancer activity against CC without the side effects. In the current review, we present the impact of apoptotic evasion on CC metastasis. We discuss the relationship between the structural factors of Citrus flavones and their anticancer activity. Finally, we described the anticancer mechanisms of Luteolin and Apigenin in CC.