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Kolie S., Altın Çelik P., Altuntaş H., Derya Andeden M.
Bütünleyici ve Anadolu Tıbbı Dergisi, vol.6, no.1, pp.60-73, 2025 (Peer-Reviewed Journal)
Abstract
Breast cancer is a major global health problem, with an estimated 2.3 million new cases in 2020, making it the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. Advances in the understanding of genetic and environmental risk factors have contributed to a significant decline in mortality rates over the past three decades and have led to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies. While significant progress has been made in breast cancer awareness and treatment, inequalities in access to care and early diagnosis, particularly in low-resource settings, remain a major challenge. Addressing these gaps is critical to improving outcomes worldwide. Natural treatments for breast cancer are gaining increasing attention as they can complement or enhance conventional treatments while minimizing side effects. Several natural products, including phytochemicals, have shown significant anti-cancer properties through multiple mechanisms, making them promising candidates for the treatment of breast cancer. Microalgae contain several bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to induce apoptosis and inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. Microalgae extracts have a significant protective effect against breast cancer through antioxidant activity, apoptosis induction, and immune modulation. Studies show that microalgae such as Spirulina and Haematococcus pluvialis can inhibit tumor growth and promote cell death in breast cancer models, highlighting their potential as complementary therapies. Although the protective effects of microalgae extracts are promising, to completely comprehend their workings and possible incorporation into traditional cancer treatments, more investigation is required. This review highlights the potential of microalgae and microalgae extracts as a source of anticancer agents based on their efficacy against breast cancer.