Shikonin in breast cancer treatment: a comprehensive review of molecular pathways and innovative strategies

Abstract Objectives Breast cancer is a prevalent disease that has a substantial impact on women’s mortality rates. Shikonin, a naphthoquinone derived from Lithospermum erythrorhizon, has demonstrated substantial anticancer effects. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive review of the latest research findings regarding the therapeutic efficacy of shikonin in the context of breast cancer treatment, with a specific emphasis on elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms. Methods A comprehensive literature review was conducted on shikonin and breast cancer by searching PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases. Key findings Shikonin significantly reduces tumor cell viability, proliferation, migration, invasion, and metastasis in both in vivo and in vitro across all breast cancer subtypes. Additionally, when combined with other pharmaceutical agents, it exhibits synergistic effects. Shikonin stimulates immunogenic cell death, resulting in apoptosis and necroptosis. The induction of immunogenic cell death by shikonin enhances the immunogenicity of breast cancer cells, leading to its involvement in the development of dendritic cell-based tumor vaccines against breast cancer. Conclusion Shikonin exhibits potent anti-breast cancer properties and shows significant potential for the advancement of immunotherapeutic approaches against breast cancer, as well as enhancing the efficacy of conventional treatment strategies.