Toxicity, Teratogenicity and Anti-cancer Activity of α-solanine: A Perspective on Anti-cancer Potential

Abstract

The alpha-Solanine is a glycoalkaloid metabolite produced by solanaceae species, important plant food in the human nutrition. This alpha-solanine is highly toxic to animals and humans and has been indicated as a risk factor for developing congenital malformations. However, recent studies suggest that alpha-solanine possesses anti-microbial and anti-tumor activities. The aim of this review was to summarize the main properties of alpha-solanine, its toxicity and teratogenicity in animal models and the main findings reported about anticancer activity against various cancer cell lines in in vitro assays. Key alpha-solanine mechanisms of action are presented alongside arising interdisciplinary research, connecting agricultural sciences and medicine. Data presented in this review, may assisted in preventing toxic effects of alpha-solanine and promote research about its potential use in the treatment and management of human cancers.