Molecular regulation of phenolic compounds on IGF-1 signaling cascade in breast cancer

Breast cancer is a highly aggressive and heterogeneous disease with complex features that remains a major health problem and undermines the span and quality of life of women worldwide. Primary literature has shown the role of phenolic compounds in controlling the onset of breast cancer. The mechanism of action of phenolic compounds can be explained by their interaction with signal transduction pathways that regulate cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis. One of the targets of phenolic compounds is the insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) signaling cascade, which plays a significant role in the growth and development of mammary tissues by leading proliferative and anti-apoptotic events. Increasing research evidence points to the function of the IGF-1 cascade system in the commencement, progression, and metastasis of breast tissue malignancy. In this review, we mainly discuss the function of the IGF-1 system, and the role of phenolic compounds in regulating the IGF-1 signaling cascade and curbing breast malignancies.