Promises of eukaryotic ribonucleases for cancer treatment: a systematic review

Abstract

Abstract Background Following an increasing interest in exploration of anticancer chemotherapeutic agents, ribonucleases are currently under investigations for alternative anticancer chemotherapy. Objective The current review scrutinizes information on the potential capability of eukaryotic ribonucleases for cancer treatment. Methods Predefined searching terms were applied to PubMed, Scopus, eLibrary databases and other search engines such as Google Scholar and bioRvix preprints. Twenty four research articles on eukaryotic ribonuclease were included in the review. Qualitative and quantitative information of these studies were extracted, analyzed and explained in text, tables and figures. Results Majority of eukaryotic ribonucleases (46%, 11/24) included in the review were extracted from various species of frogs, 21% (5/24) were from bovine sources and others were from human bodies, edible mushrooms, fungal and plant species. Molecular characteristics of eukaryotic ribonucleases were illustrated in tables and figures. According to the reports, ranpirnase with a trademark of Onconase® is the sole ribonuclease granted with an orphan and fast-track drug status by FDA, USA. Most other eukaryotic ribonucleases are undergoing various preclinical stages of research for their potential anticancer effect. Hence, the mean of half – maximal inhibitory concentrations (IC50) of eukaryotic ribonucleases of several research outcomes showed their selective cytotoxicity towards cancerous cells. In some reports, pre-tumor-xenografted animals treated with ribonucleases also demonstrated diminished tumor volume, lower tumor metastasis and increased survival rates. In addition, overall safety and toxicity parameters were also indicated as tolerable by the experimental hosts. However, a single study indicated degeneration of spermatogenic epithelia in wheat leave RNase treated animals. Conclusions Though several clinical trials on eukaryotic ribonucleases are expected, existing results from in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies showed promising alternative chemotherapy to treat cancer diseases. Hence, further human safety and efficacy studies are still necessary to explore well established applications of eukaryotic ribonucleases in clinical medicine.