Vincristine in Cancer Therapy: Mechanisms, Efficacy, and Future Perspectives

Abstract: Cancer remains one of the predominant causes of mortality globally, accounting for over 10 million deaths each year. Despite advancements in medical treatments, the challenge of resistance and treatment failure persists, necessitating innovative approaches. Traditional cancer treatments include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and pharmaceutical therapy. In recent years, significant attention has been directed towards plant-derived compounds as potential chemotherapeutic agents and preventive measures against cancer. Vincristine, a distinguished alkaloid derived from plant secondary metabolites, has shown considerable efficacy in cancer treatment. As a member of the antimitotic class of compounds, vincristine disrupts the cell cycle by causing aberrations in microtubule function, thereby inhibiting cell division and proliferation. This mechanism of action positions vincristine as a potent agent against various malignancies. Its role in combination therapy is crucial, as it is often administered in low doses alongside other chemotherapeutic agents to enhance its efficacy and reduce the risk of resistance. In the realm of medicinal chemistry, understanding vincristine's molecular mechanism is paramount. Detailed investigations into its interaction with cellular components can provide insights into its antineoplastic properties. This review aimed to elucidate vincristine's mechanism of action and structure-activity relationship, and summarize current in vitro and in vivo studies evaluating its efficacy. Moreover, it discusses innovative strategies, including nanotechnology-based delivery systems, designed to optimize vincristine formulations. These advanced delivery systems aim to improve bioavailability, target specificity, and minimize systemic toxicity. This comprehensive analysis underscores the critical role of vincristine in contemporary cancer treatment and highlights future directions for research and development in this field.