The brain tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex and dynamic niche
composed of tumor cells, immune cells, blood vessels, extracellular matrix (ECM), and
signaling molecules that interact to support tumor progression, angiogenesis, and
immune evasion. Targeting the TME has emerged as a promising strategy for
combating brain tumors, particularly gliomas, which remain challenging to treat with
conventional therapies. In this context, natural bioactive compounds have gained
significant attention due to their multi-targeting abilities, biocompatibility, and reduced
side effects compared to synthetic drugs. These abstract reviews key natural bioactive
compounds that modulate the brain tumor microenvironment, focusing on their
mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic benefits. The potential for modulating
the microenvironment of brain tumors has been highlighted by recent studies on natural
bioactives, which are compounds found in plants, fungi, and marine organisms. These
bioactives can influence key pathways involved in tumor growth, immune evasion,
angiogenesis, and metastasis. This review focuses on the mechanisms by which natural
bioactives, such as curcumin, resveratrol, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and
cannabinoids, exert their effects on the brain tumor microenvironment. It has been
demonstrated that these compounds inhibit tumor growth by modulating oxidative
stress, inflammation, and signaling pathways, including MAPK, PI3K, and NF-κB.
Additionally, the review discusses the challenges and future directions in translating
these findings from preclinical models to clinical applications. Bioactives and their
interactions with the brain tumor microenvironment provide the basis for developing
new therapeutic strategies which can improve patient outcomes and reduce the side
effects associated with standard treatment.
Keywords: Brain tumor, Curcumin, Cannabinoids, EGCG, Inflammation, Microenvironment, Natural bioactive, Oxidative stress, Resveratrol, Signaling pathways.
