Abstract

RUBIADIN: UNVEILING ITS PHOTODYNAMIC MECHANISMS FOR CANCER THERAPY

Vandana S. Nade, Priyanka J. Hemake*, Divya A. Patil, Laxman A. Kawale, Vaishnavi A. Ahire and Vaishnavi B. Nikam

Abstract

Cancer, characterized by uncontrolled cell proliferation and metastasis, remains a major global health challenge with significant mortality and morbidity. Traditional therapies, including chemotherapy and radiation, often exhibit severe adverse effects, toxicity to healthy tissues, and the rapid emergence of drug resistance. These limitations have driven the exploration of natural products as alternative therapeutic agents due to their multi-target capabilities, reduced toxicity, and cost-effectiveness. Rubiadin, an anthraquinone derivative obtained from Rubia cordifolia, has emerged as a promising candidate for cancer treatment. It exhibits a wide range of pharmacological activities, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects. Its unique potential lies in photodynamic therapy (PDT), a targeted approach that uses light-activated photosensitizers like rubiadin to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), including singlet oxygen. This process selectively induces cancer cell death through apoptosis, necrosis, or autophagic pathways, minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Rubiadin also shows efficacy against chemotherapy resistance and metastasis. However, challenges such as genotoxicity, limited bioavailability, and toxicity at higher doses highlight the need for further research. Strategies including combinatorial therapies, targeted delivery systems, and the development of structural analogs are essential to optimize rubiadin's therapeutic potential. This review underscores the importance of natural products in modern oncology and positions rubiadin as a cornerstone for advancing next-generation cancer therapies, particularly through its application in photodynamic therapy (PDT).

Keywords: Cancer therapy, Metastasis, Photodynamic therapy, Rubiadin.