Marine Cyanobacterial Peptides in Neuroblastoma: Search for Better Therapeutic Options

Neuroblastoma is the most prevalent extracranial solid tumor in pediatric patients, originating from sympathetic nervous system cells. Metastasis can be observed in approximately 70% of individuals after diagnosis, and the prognosis is poor. The current care methods used, which include surgical removal as well as radio and chemotherapy, are largely unsuccessful, with high mortality and relapse rates. Therefore, attempts have been made to incorporate natural compounds as new alternative treatments. Marine cyanobacteria are a key source of physiologically active metabolites, which have recently received attention owing to their anticancer potential. This review addresses cyanobacterial peptides' anticancer efficacy against neuroblastoma. Numerous prospective studies have been carried out with marine peptides for pharmaceutical development including in research for anticancer potential. Marine peptides possess several advantages over proteins or antibodies, including small size, simple manufacturing, cell membrane crossing capabilities, minimal drug-drug interactions, minimal changes in blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, selective targeting, chemical and biological diversities, and effects on liver and kidney functions. We discussed the significance of cyanobacterial peptides in generating cytotoxic effects and their potential to prevent cancer cell proliferation via apoptosis, the activation of caspases, cell cycle arrest, sodium channel blocking, autophagy, and anti-metastasis behavior.

Automated summary

Neuroblastoma is a common solid tumor in pediatric patients that arises from sympathetic nervous system cells. Current treatments have limited success, leading to high mortality and relapse rates. Marine cyanobacteria, which contain bioactive metabolites, have shown promise as alternative treatments. This review focuses on the anticancer effects of cyanobacterial peptides against neuroblastoma. Marine peptides offer advantages such as small size, easy manufacturing, ability to cross cell membranes, minimal drug interactions, little impact on the blood-brain barrier, and targeting capabilities. The review discusses the cytotoxic effects of cyanobacterial peptides, including apoptosis, caspase activation, cell cycle arrest, sodium channel blocking, autophagy, and anti-metastasis properties.