Phytochemicals With Anti 5-Alpha-Reductase Activity: A Prospect for Prostate Cancer Treatment

The review discussed the potential of phytochemicals, such as phytosterols, polyphenols, and fatty acids, as natural alternatives to synthetic 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors (5αRis) for prostate cancer treatment. Synthetic 5αRis like finasteride and dutasteride were effective but had adverse side effects, leading to interest in plant-derived compounds. Phytosterols like β-sitosterol and stigmasterol, and polyphenols like quercetin, myricetin, and fisetin, showed promise in inhibiting 5αR activity and reducing prostate tumor growth. Catechins from green tea also demonstrated potential as 5αR inhibitors. These findings suggested that phytochemicals could serve as complementary or alternative treatments for prostate cancer with fewer side effects than conventional medicines, highlighting the need for further research into these plant-based compounds.