Harnessing Olive Oil Components as Novel Antioxidants in Neuroblastoma Treatment

Marta Accardi^*
*Correspondence: Marta Accardi, Department of Chemistry, Medical University of Sofia, 1000 Sofia, Bulgaria, Email:

Keywords

Neuroblastoma • Preclinical studies • Anti-cancer effects

Introduction

Neuroblastoma represents one of the most common solid tumors in children, arising from primitive cells of the sympathetic nervous system. Despite advances in treatment modalities, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, the prognosis for high-risk neuroblastoma remains poor. The limited efficacy of conventional therapies and the high toxicity associated with them underscore the urgent need for alternative treatment strategies. Oxidative stress, characterized by an imbalance between Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) production and antioxidant defense mechanisms, plays a crucial role in neuroblastoma progression. ROS can induce DNA damage, promote cell proliferation, and contribute to tumor growth and metastasis. Targeting oxidative stress represents a promising therapeutic approach in combating neuroblastoma [1].

Literature Review

Olive oil, a staple of the Mediterranean diet, contains various bioactive compounds with potent antioxidant properties. Among these, polyphenols such as hydroxytyrosol, oleuropein, and tyrosol have garnered significant attention for their ability to scavenge free radicals, modulate signaling pathways, and exert anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds hold promise as adjuvants in neuroblastoma therapy due to their potential to mitigate oxidative stressinduced damage. The anti-neuroblastoma effects of olive oil components are mediated through multiple mechanisms. Hydroxytyrosol, for instance, has been shown to inhibit cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, and suppress angiogenesis in neuroblastoma models. Oleuropein exhibits anti-inflammatory properties and disrupts tumor microenvironment interactions critical for tumor progression. Moreover, olive oil polyphenols can enhance the efficacy of conventional chemotherapeutic agents while mitigating their toxic side effects [2].

Discussion

Preclinical studies investigating the efficacy of olive oil components in neuroblastoma have yielded promising results. In vitro experiments demonstrate the ability of hydroxytyrosol and oleuropein to inhibit neuroblastoma cell proliferation, induce cell cycle arrest, and promote apoptosis. Animal studies further support these findings, showing reduced tumor growth and metastasis following treatment with olive oil polyphenols. While preclinical evidence suggests the potential utility of olive oil components in neuroblastoma treatment, clinical translation remains in its infancy. Clinical trials evaluating the safety and efficacy of olive oil-based interventions, either alone or in combination with standard therapies, are warranted. Additionally, further elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-neuroblastoma effects of olive oil components will facilitate the development of targeted therapeutic strategies [3-6].

Conclusion

Olive oil components represent a promising class of natural antioxidants with potential applications in neuroblastoma treatment. Their ability to mitigate oxidative stress, modulate signaling pathways, and synergize with conventional therapies highlights their therapeutic potential. Future research efforts should focus on elucidating the precise mechanisms of action, conducting rigorous clinical trials, and optimizing treatment strategies to improve outcomes for children with neuroblastoma.

Acknowledgement

None.

Conflict of Interest

None.

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