Potential anticancer effects and toxicity of flavones luteolin and apigenin in vivo

Luteolin and apigenin, which are abundantly present in various vegetables, fruits, and herbs, have emerged as noteworthy candidates for therapeutic applications. Traditionally recognized for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, both luteolin and apigenin have recently demonstrated the ability to inhibit cancer cell growth across multiple cancer types in vitro and in animal models. This review provides a comprehensive summary of in vivo evidence supporting the anticancer effects of luteolin and apigenin, highlighting their mechanisms of action. The review encompasses studies on their effects on liver, lung, gastric, colon, breast, pancreatic, prostate, and skin cancers in animals. We also discuss the toxicity profiles of luteolin and apigenin. Despite the encouraging preclinical results, neither luteolin nor apigenin has yet been proven to be an effective agent against cancer in clinical trials. Therefore, this review also addresses the current challenges in translating the promising anticancer effects of flavones into clinical success, emphasizing the need for further research using advanced animal models and appropriate administration routes to increase the translational value of preclinical studies. This literature review aims to enhance understanding of the anticancer and toxicological effects of luteolin and apigenin, rather than serving as a risk assessment.