Targeting signal pathways triggered by cyclic peptides in cancer: Current trends and future challenges

Cancer is a global health issue that origins thousands of deaths annually worldwide. Cyclic peptides are poly peptide chains which are formed by cyclic sequence of amide bonds between proteinogenic or non-proteinogenic amino acids. Numerous evidences indicate that cyclic peptides are implicated with the occurrence and development of cancer. This review presents the current knowledge about the role of cyclic peptides in cancer, such as liver cancer, colorectal cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer as well as prostate cancer. Specifically, the precise molecular mechanisms between cyclic peptides and cancer are elaborated. Some cyclic peptides from nature and synthesis prevent the occurrence and development of cancer. However, some other cyclic peptides including endothelin-1, urotensinIIand melanin-concentrating hormone deteriorate the pathogenesis of cancer. Given the pleiotropic actions of cyclic peptides, the identification and development of cyclic peptides and their derivates as drug may be a potent therapeutic strategy for cancer.

Automated summary

Cancer is a global health issue, with cyclic peptides playing a significant role in the occurrence and development of various types of cancer. While some cyclic peptides can prevent cancer progression, others may worsen the pathogenesis of cancer. Therefore, the identification and development of cyclic peptides and their derivatives as drugs could be an effective therapeutic strategy for cancer.