Recent advances in the use of legume lectins for the diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer

Poor lifestyle choices and genetic predisposition are factors that increase the number of cancer cases, one example being breast cancer, the third most diagnosed type of malignancy. Currently, there is a demand for the development of new strategies to ensure early detection and treatment options that could contribute to the complete remission of breast tumors, which could lead to increased overall survival rates. In this context, the glycans observed at the surface of cancer cells are presented as efficient tumor cell markers. These carbohydrate structures can be recognized by lectins which can act as decoders of the glycocode. The application of plant lectins as tools for diagnosis/treatment of breast cancer encompasses the detection and sorting of glycans found in healthy and malignant cells. Here, we present an overview of the most recent studies in this field, demonstrating the potential of lectins as: mapping agents to detect differentially expressed glycans in breast cancer, as histochemistry/cytochemistry analysis agents, in lectin arrays, immobilized in chromatographic matrices, in drug delivery, and as biosensing agents. In addition, we describe lectins that present antiproliferative effects by themselves and/or in conjunction with other drugs in a synergistic effect.& COPY; 2022 Elsevier B.V. and Societe Francaise de Biochimie et Biologie Moleculaire (SFBBM). All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Poor lifestyle choices and genetic predisposition contribute to the increase in cancer cases, such as breast cancer. The development of new strategies for early detection and treatment options is needed to improve survival rates. Glycans on cancer cell surfaces serve as efficient tumor cell markers and can be recognized by lectins. Plant lectins have potential applications in diagnosing and treating breast cancer by detecting and sorting glycans in healthy and malignant cells. Furthermore, lectins can be utilized in various ways, such as mapping differentially expressed glycans, histochemistry/cytochemistry analysis, lectin arrays, chromatographic matrices, drug delivery, and biosensing.