Exploring the Role of Catharanthus roseus in Anticancer Drug Biosynthesis

Abstract

Catharanthus roseus, commonly known as Madagascar periwinkle, is a significant medicinal plant renowned for its rich alkaloid content, particularly vinblastine and vincristine, which are extensively used in cancer chemotherapy. These bisindole alkaloids function by disrupting microtubule formation, leading to cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in cancer cells. The biosynthesis of these compounds involves complex metabolic pathways, starting from tryptophan and secologanin, which give rise to catharanthine and vindoline, the precursors of vinblastine and vincristine. This review explores the phytochemical composition of C. roseus, its biosynthetic pathways, and the extraction and purification techniques used to isolate its bioactive compounds. Advances in biotechnology, including genetic
engineering and plant tissue culture techniques, have been employed to enhance alkaloid production. However, challenges such as low yields and complex biosynthetic regulation remain significant hurdles in large-scale production. Furthermore, C. roseus exhibits diverse pharmacological properties beyond its anticancer applications, including antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and antimicrobial activities. Research into novel derivatives and synthetic analogs of its alkaloids holds promise for developing more effective and less toxic therapeutic agents. Future directions in cancer treatment involve optimizing synthetic biology approaches and screening new alkaloids for potential clinical applications. This review highlights the importance of C. roseus in modern medicine and its potential for further biotechnological enhancement to meet global pharmaceutical demands.