Integrating natural woody composites with modern therapies for enhanced lung cancer treatment

Abstract

Lung cancer accounts for the majority of cancer-related deaths globally. Exploring more efficacious and low-toxicity treatments has become a top priority. While there have been advancements in established therapies like surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy, these treatments often lead to side effects, limited effectiveness in advanced stages, and development of drug resistance. These challenges persistently hinder efforts to improve patient outcomes. Here, we review the utilization of medicine of natural woody composites (MNWC) in treating lung cancer with a specific focus on its integration with contemporary therapeutic modalities, for instance, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, molecularly targeted therapies and immunotherapy. The examination indicates that MNWC not only amplifies the efficacy of these treatments but also diminishes associated adverse effects. Clinical research demonstrates that when MNWC and chemotherapy are used jointly, it can extend the median survival rate of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) sufferers by 33% (from 12 to 16 months). Moreover, MNWC can upregulate apoptosis-related pathways and downregulate PD-L1 expression, thereby increasing immune response efficacy by 25% in preclinical models. However, the effectiveness of MNWC necessitates comprehensive validation through large-scale clinical trials, while the standardization of dosing regimens presents a significant challenge. These findings emphasize the potential of MNWC to revolutionize lung cancer therapy by providing a complementary and synergistic approach that maximizes treatment efficacy while minimizing adverse effects. Nonetheless, careful consideration is essential to fully integrate these treatments into conventional oncology practice.