A comprehensive review of alkaloids in cancer therapy: focusing on molecular mechanisms and synergistic potential of piperine in colorectal cancer

Article type: Review Article

Keywords: Piperidine alkaloid, Alkaloids, Piperine, Black pepper, Colorectal cancer, Combination therapy, Nutraceuticals

Authors: Chinthana Chidananda, Goutam Thakur ⚬, Deepanjan Datta, Ketul Popat

Affiliations: https://ror.org/02xzytt36grid.411639.80000 0001 0571 5193Department of Biomedical Engineering, Manipal Institute of Technology, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Udupi, Karnataka 576104 India; https://ror.org/02xzytt36grid.411639.80000 0001 0571 5193Department of Pharmaceutics, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, Udupi, Karnataka 576104 India; https://ror.org/02jqj7156grid.22448.380000 0004 1936 8032Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering and Computing, George Mason University, Fairfax, VA 22030 USA

License: © The Author(s) 2025 CC BY 4.0 Open Access This article is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License, which permits use, sharing, adaptation, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, as long as you give appropriate credit to the original author(s) and the source, provide a link to the Creative Commons licence, and indicate if changes were made. The images or other third party material in this article are included in the article’s Creative Commons licence, unless indicated otherwise in a credit line to the material. If material is not included in the article’s Creative Commons licence and your intended use is not permitted by statutory regulation or exceeds the permitted use, you will need to obtain permission directly from the copyright holder. To view a copy of this licence, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/.

Article links: DOI: 10.1007/s13205-025-04535-8  |  PubMed: 41164768  |  PMC: PMC12559525

Relevance: Moderate: mentioned 3+ times in text

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Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the third most diagnosed cancers, accounting for ten percent of all cases worldwide. In terms of mortality, it stands in second place, causing 9.4% of total cancer deaths after lung cancer, as represented in Fig. 1. Among men, it ranks as the third most frequently identified cancer after lung and prostate cancer and second in terms of cancer-related mortality following liver cancer. In women, CRC is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer after breast cancer, and it is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality after lung cancer and breast cancer (Sung et al. ref. 2021).

In recent decades, CRC treatment has evolved predominantly through the use of a multimodal approach with traditional and emerging targeted therapies. The current treatment comprises a combination of surgical interventions, systematic therapies, and localized treatments tailored to the stage of the disease and patient-specific traits, consequently contributing to improved prognosis and extended lifespan (Benson et al. ref. 2018). Regardless of these treatment advancements, each therapy has its limitations. The overall management of CRC remains a significant clinical challenge, with complications emerging from surgery and toxicity induced by chemotherapy to the limited applicability of targeted therapies (Schirrmacher ref. 2019). Despite advancements in screening and treatment modalities, CRC presents substantial challenges to healthcare systems (Khan And Lengyel ref. 2023).

Therapeutic agents extracted from natural sources have gained importance in the management of various diseases (Chaachouay And Zidane ref. 2024). The incorporation of natural compounds to treat cancer has attracted increasing interest in recent years (Asma et al. ref. 2022). The limitations of existing treatments include alternative methods, specifically the use of natural compounds and ameliorated biomolecules for treatment, aiming to increase bioavailability, stability, and therapeutic efficacy while retaining their inherent pharmacologic benefits (Rodrigues et al. ref. 2021a, ref. b; Rodrigues et al. ref. 2019). These compounds can mitigate adverse effects by efficiently targeting cancer cells while sparing healthy cells (Chartier et al. ref. 2019; Drețcanu et al. ref. 2021). Among many existing natural sources, research on many plants worldwide has revealed the effects of various categories of compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, and alkaloids, on their activity via many signaling pathways against CRC (Wang et al. ref. 2022).

A cyclic ring comprising one or more basic nitrogen atoms structurally represents alkaloids (Heinrich et al. ref. 2021). Carl F. W. Meissner, a German scientist, first used the term “alkaloid” in 1819. The Arabic word al-qali, which describes the plant from which soda was initially extracted, is the origin of this term (Croteau et al. ref. 2000). Alkaloids have therapeutic applications in human medicine as anesthetics, cardio-protective agents, anti-inflammatory substances, and anticancer agents (Kurek ref. 2019). Approximately 20% of alkaloids occur as secondary metabolites in plants (Kaur and Arora ref. 2015). As of October 25, 2020, the Dictionary of Natural Products (DNP) recorded 27,683 alkaloids. Between 2014 and 2020, 990 entries were added, representing either newly discovered alkaloids or those that were reexamined from natural sources (Heinrich et al. ref. 2021). This review outlines and further investigates the anticancer potential of alkaloids, particularly focusing on piperine and its role in the treatment of CRC, both alone and in combination with other nutraceuticals and drug molecules.

Anticancer potential of alkaloids from plant sources

Alkaloids can be classified on the basis of their chemical structure as imidazole, indole, isoquinoline, piperidine, purine, pyrrolidine, pyrrolizidine, quinoline, steroidal, or tropane alkaloids. These nitrogen-containing secondary metabolites exhibit major antineoplastic potential through multiple mechanisms, including the modulation of critical signaling pathways, cell cycle arrest, and angiogenesis inhibition (Olofinsan et al. ref. 2023). Several bioactive alkaloids produced from natural sources have demonstrated significant anticancer activity, acting through mechanisms, such as inducing apoptosis and inhibiting tumor proliferation, highlighting their potential as novel therapeutic agents (Prajapati et al. ref. 2025). Table 1 provides a comprehensive overview of various alkaloid types, their natural sources, representative compounds, chemical structures, cancer types studied, mechanisms of action, and relevant references. Alkaloids can be categorized into different classes, including proto-alkaloids, indole alkaloids, quinoline derivatives, carbazole alkaloids, etc. This table highlights their cytotoxic effects on various cancers, such as breast, colon, lung, and prostate cancer, through mechanisms, such as apoptosis induction, mitochondrial dysfunction, ROS generation, and the inhibition of key signaling pathways.

Piperine: piperidine alkaloid

Piperine is a piperidine alkaloid isolated primarily from black pepper with the molecular formula C₁₇H₁₉NO₃ (Table 2). Black pepper is the primary source of piperine, accounting for approximately 5–10% by weight, with variations depending on the variety, climate, and drying processes (Ashokkumar et al. ref. 2021). Long pepper (Piper longum) has a relatively low piperine concentration, ranging from 1 to 2%, but remains a notable source. Other species within the Piper genus, such as cubeb pepper (Piper cubeba), are present in much smaller amounts, with cubeb pepper having only approximately 0.1% piperine. Additionally, related peppers, such as Sichuan pepper (Zanthoxylum simulans) and paradise grains (Aframomum melegueta), contain minimal piperine compared with black pepper (Salehi et al. ref. 2019). This alkaloid functions as an inhibitor of NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells), exists as a metabolite in plants and human blood serum, and serves as a component of food. It belongs to several chemical categories, including benzodioxoles, N-acylpiperidines, piperidine alkaloids, and tertiary carboxamides (National Center for Biotechnology Information, ref. 2025).

Piperine has crucial anticancer effects, especially in CRC, by inhibiting cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis in various cancer cell lines without impairing healthy cells. It regulates critical signaling pathways, notably the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, which is often dysregulated in CRC and reduces cell migration and invasion (explained in detail in the coming section and Fig. 6). In addition, piperine has been shown to enhance conventional cancer treatments, such as celecoxib, and nutraceuticals, such as curcumin, suggesting its efficacy as a synergistic agent in cancer therapy. Overall, the multifaceted mechanisms of piperine and its ability to improve existing treatment strategies make it a promising candidate for cancer treatment (Benayad et al. ref. 2023; Bolat et al. ref. 2020; de Almeida et al. ref. 2020; Srivastava et al. ref. 2021).

Physicochemical properties, pharmacokinetic profiles and molecular docking insights of piperine

The physicochemical properties of piperine, along with its chemical structure, are shown in Table 2. The molar mass of piperine is 285.35 g/mol, and its chemical composition is C₁₇H₁₉NO₃. While it has remarkable medicinal properties, it is insoluble in aqueous buffers at 18 °C (approximately 40 mg/l). It is soluble in carbon-based compounds, i.e., organic solvents, such as ethanol, methanol, Transcutol, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), and dimethyl formamide, at a concentration of approximately 10 mg/ml. Owing to its difficulty in water solubility, it has low oral bioavailability and is limited to targeting organs and tissues (Ren et al. ref. 2019; Stasiłowicz et al. ref. 2021).

Absorption

Piperine is highly lipophilic and follows non-saturable passive absorption kinetics. Studies have revealed limited absorption when piperine is administered intraperitoneally in mice, with a 1–2.5% concentration in the liver and 15% in the spleen, kidney, and serum (Bhat And Chandrasekhara ref. 1986; Quijia et al. ref. 2021). Another study by Suresh and Srinivasan (ref. 2010) administered piperine (170 mg kg⁻¹) to rats orally, which resulted in a maximum level of 8% of the total amount reaching the intestine after 6 h. In rats, piperine is primarily absorbed in the intestinal tract, with absorption efficiency on the mucosal side of the rat intestine ranging from 40 to 60%. Absorption was noted at higher rates in duodenal segments than in jejunal and ileal segments (Suresh And Srinivasan ref. 2007). Another study in which alkaloids from Piper longum L. were orally administered to rats revealed that piperine exhibited rapid absorption, with a mean maximum plasma time (T_max) of 2.45 h, suggesting its effective uptake from the intestinal tract (Liu et al. ref. 2011).

Distribution

After absorption, piperine is widely distributed throughout the body. Upon oral administration, the concentration of piperine in serum, blood, kidneys, liver, and intestine peaked at 10.8% at the 6-h mark. This concentration decreased to 0.5% after 24 h and further decreased to 0.3% after 48 h. By 96 h, piperine was no longer detectable in any of these tissues (Suresh And Srinivasan ref. 2010). Piperine also restricts hepatic metabolism and effectively enters the brain because of its high binding capacity to brain tissues and plasma proteins (Ren et al. ref. 2018; Yeggoni et al. ref. 2015). In terms of tissue distribution, the liver presented the highest concentration two hours after injection, at approximately 456 ± 291 ng/g (Liu et al. ref. 2013).

Metabolism

Piperine undergoes extensive metabolism in the body through various reactions, including dehydrogenation, hydrogenation, methylation, glucuronic conjugation, ring cleavage, demethylation, hydroxylation, methoxylation, sulfate conjugation, oxidation, and glucuronidation. These processes result in several metabolites being detected in urine, including piperic acid, piperonylic acid, piperonyl alcohol, piperonal, and vanillic acid. Research has identified 148 metabolites of piperine in mice, indicating the intricate metabolic reactions it undergoes (Shang et al. ref. 2017).

Excretion

Piperine and its metabolites are essentially excreted through feces and urine. Within the first four days of ingestion, approximately 3.64% of the administered piperine is excreted through feces. After five days, it is no longer detectable in either feces or urine. In particular, approximately 96% of orally administered piperine is absorbed in rats, reflecting its high absorption rate (Suresh And Srinivasan ref. 2010). Piperine has a half-life (t_1/2) of 4.10 h in a rodent model with an administration dose of 54.4 mg/kg (J. Liu et al. ref. 2011), whereas in humans, piperine administration has a t_1/2 of 13.2–15.8 h, implying a relatively slow elimination process (Itharat et al. ref. 2020; Tripathi et al. ref. 2022).

Bioavailability

Piperine has high lipophilicity and weak basicity, revealing its non-saturable passive absorption kinetics. In 1979, it was also recognized as the first bio-enhancer in the world by Indian scientists at the Regional Research Laboratory in Jammu (Db et al. ref. 2018). Despite its potential, the inability of piperine to dissolve limits both its availability at the site of action and its bioavailability in the body (Quijia et al. ref. 2021). Another study on the oral administration of piperine in rats reported a bioavailability of approximately 37.7% upon the administration of alkaloids from Piper longum L. This finding indicates that over one-third of ingested piperine reaches the systemic circulation unaltered, suggesting a moderate value of absorption and metabolism (Liu et al. ref. 2013). A recent study revealed notable increases in the peak plasma concentration (Cmax), area under the curve (AUC), and half-life of traditional drugs when used in conjunction with piperine. These results indicate that piperine might increase drug bioavailability by inhibiting crucial enzymes, such as CYP2 C9, CYP2E1, and CYP3 A4. This holds clinical promise, particularly in boosting the effectiveness of drugs that typically have low bioavailability (Pradeepa et al. ref. 2023).

Toxicity

As a dietary supplement, piperine generally has relatively low levels of acute and chronic toxicity. When piperine is administered intravenously, it is more toxic than when it is administered intragastrically, subcutaneously, or intramuscularly. The insoluble nature or chemical instability of piperine in the stomach is believed to be the cause of the decreased toxicity observed via the intragastric route. Thus, a greater dosage of piperine results in histopathological lesions in the gastrointestinal tract, mild-to-moderate enteritis in the small intestine, and hemorrhagic ulcers in the stomach, suggesting that piperine has direct and local effects on the gastrointestinal lumen. The LD₅₀ values of piperine are listed in Table 3 and are based on the various administration routes used (Piyachaturawat et al. ref. 1983; Zhang et al. ref. 2021). Piperine has not shown genotoxicity in either in vitro or in vivo models (Thiel et al. ref. 2014). It also inhibits spermatogenesis and reduces reproductive capacity in rats at a dosage of 10 mg/kg body weight, highlighting its potential reproductive effect on the administration of higher doses (Chen et al. ref. 2018; Daware et al ref. 2000).

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) developed a no-observed adverse-effect level (NOAEL) of 5 mg/kg body weight/day from a 90-day rat study, which was used in the Norwegian Scientific Committee for Food Safety’s (VKM) evaluation, which was based on toxicity studies and previous risk assessments. Values of 145 for children, 204 for adolescents, and 234 for adults were obtained via the margin of exposure (MOE) technique; these values were significantly greater than the tolerable cutoff of 100. VKM concluded that there is little chance of pharmacologic or phytochemical interactions at typical dietary levels and that a daily dosage of 1.5 mg of piperine from supplements is unlikely to have a negative effect on the health of children, adolescents, or adults (Rohloff et al. ref. 2018). In human studies, supplemental doses ranging from 4 to 40 mg/day are generally considered safe although reports of mild gastrointestinal discomfort and skin rashes are rare, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and further safety evaluations for clinical applications (Ziegenhagen et al. ref. 2021).

Molecular docking insights into piperine

Molecular docking can be used to virtually screen vast numbers of natural compounds to predict their binding interactions and affinities with a target protein, thereby accelerating the discovery of new therapeutic agents and providing insights into their mechanisms of action (Mishra et al. ref. 2023). These computational studies revealed the significant binding affinity of piperine for various target proteins. Studies have shown that BAX, Cox-2, Caspase 3, and Caspase 9 docked with piperine exhibit binding scores of 3824, 5042, 4174, and 4988 kcal/mol, respectively, suggesting the potential of piperine in colon cancer research (Kirubhanand et al. ref. 2020). Additionally, docking with the EGFR tyrosine kinase exhibited an inhibitory ability with a binding energy of − 7.6 kJ mol⁻¹, forming two hydrogen bonds with the PRO699 and ARG831 residues. The docking energy was 7.06, with an inhibitory constant of 2.69e-006 and an intermolecular energy of − 8.22 (Paarakh et al. ref. 2015). These structural characteristics contribute to the ability of piperine to modulate various cellular pathways and increase the bioavailability of co-administered drugs or phytochemicals. These findings align with other molecular modeling studies of natural compounds that target colon cancer via curcumin derivatives as Abl-kinase inhibitors, suggesting that phytochemicals such as piperine warrant further investigation as potential anticancer agents through computational and in vitro validation approaches (Rodrigues et al. ref. 2021a, ref. b).

The effect of the mTOR protein, which is essential for the development of cancer, was further investigated in a computational study. The molecular docking results revealed that piperine had a binding affinity of − 8.3 kcal/mol for the mTOR protein, which is very similar to the binding affinity of rapamycin, a well-known mTOR inhibitor, which is − 8.8 kcal/mol. Piperine binds to the mTOR active site in an ATP-competitive way and remains stable and firm, according to molecular dynamics simulations run over 100 ns. According to the MTT assay results, piperine dramatically reduced the viability of cancer cells, with IC₅₀ values of 19.73 ± 0.25 µM at 72 h, 46.3 ± 0.26 µM at 48 h, and 84.5 ± 0.5 µM at 24 h. Although more research is needed, these results imply that piperine is a promising mTOR inhibitor with potential uses in the treatment of cancer (Jan et al. ref. 2025).

Therapeutic potential of piperine

In Indian and Chinese medicines, piperine is a significant bioactive substance that has a variety of therapeutic uses, including antibacterial, anticonvulsant, anticancer, and neuroprotective properties (Fig. 2) (Tiwari et al. ref. 2020). As an antioxidant, it effectively reduces reactive substances while maintaining key enzyme activities, such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase (Vijayakumar et al. ref. 2004). Piperine, as an anticonvulsant, delays tonic‒clonic seizures (Mishra et al. ref. 2015), and it is also effective against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria because of its antimicrobial properties (Zarai et al. ref. 2013). As a neuroprotective agent, it reduces cytokine IL-1b expression and improves motor coordination (Chonpathompikunlert et al. ref. 2010), and as a hepato-protective agent, it decreases lipid peroxidation in cells (Gurumurthy et al. ref. 2012). It is also known for its significant anticancer properties, demonstrating its potential to reverse drug resistance in cervical cells (Han et al. ref. 2017). Piperine also has potential in the management of pain, rheumatic arthritis, fever, and influenza (Parthasarathy et al. ref. 2008) but has anti-parasitic properties (Kumar et al. ref. 2012) and larvicidal effects against disease vectors (Samuel et al. ref. 2016). In addition to these traits, it enhances the bioavailability of several drugs, including rifampicin, ibuprofen, and omeprazole (Khatri And Awasti ref. 2016; Khatri et al. ref. 2015), making it valuable in combination therapies.

Anticancer mechanisms of piperine

Piperine exhibits effective anti-inflammatory and apoptotic properties through multiple mechanisms as explained in Fig. 3. It suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β; inhibits inflammatory factors; triggers both intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways; and exhibits traits, such as nuclear condensation and DNA breakage (Tawani et al. ref. 2016; Wang-Sheng et al. ref. 2017). It increases ROS production by altering the mitochondrial membrane potential and activating caspase-3 (Jafri et al. ref. 2019). Studies have also shown that piperine can trigger autophagy by inhibiting mTORC kinase and controlling proteins linked to autophagy (Kaur et al. ref. 2018; Ouyang et al. ref. 2013). Moreover, altering cyclin and cyclin-dependent kinases induces cell cycle arrest at the G₁ and G₂/M phases (Fofaria et al. ref. 2014; Greenshields et al. ref. 2015).

The anticancer action of piperine involves several signaling pathways and anti-metastatic properties. It inhibits the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway in oral cancer cells (Han et al. ref. 2023) and suppresses the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in CRC cells (de Almeida et al. ref. 2020). By preventing tubule formation and Akt activation in breast cancer cells, this alkaloid has strong antiangiogenic effects (Doucette et al. ref. 2013). The decrease in tumor nodules in lung metastasis models and the suppression of IL-6 expression in gastric cancer cells are proof of its anti-metastatic action (Greenshields et al. ref. 2015; Lin et al. ref. 2007). By increasing E-cadherin levels and decreasing MMP-9 and MMP-13 expression, piperine also decreases cancer cell invasion while preserving the integrity of the extracellular matrix (Zare et al. ref. 2021). These diverse mechanisms collectively contribute to the potential of piperine as a therapeutic agent in cancer treatment.

Role of piperine in colorectal cancer (CRC)

Piperine can potentially treat CRC through its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and many other mechanisms of action by which it can act as an anticancer agent. Studies have shown that it can influence several crucial cellular functions, such as apoptosis activation, cell cycle arrest, and cancer stem cell manipulation, to inhibit tumor development and survival. Focusing on these mechanisms, piperine has the potential to overcome the limitations of conventional treatments and offers a feasible strategy for enhancing the management of CRC. Table 4 highlights the preclinical studies performed on the use of piperine against CRC in various cell lines and animal models. A comprehensive method of cancer treatment involves the molecular mechanisms of piperine in colorectal cancer. Piperine shows great promise as a multifunctional anticancer drug that targets several cellular processes, such as apoptosis, autophagy, oncogenic signaling, and inflammatory responses. Figure 4 highlights the multi-targeted therapeutic approach of piperine studied thus far in preclinical CRC models.

Molecular mechanisms of piperine in the treatment of CRC

Induction of apoptosis

Inducing apoptosis in cancer cells is a crucial action in which piperine works as an anticancer agent. Yaffe et al. (ref. 2013) reported that reactive oxygen species (ROS) production is the primary cause of the complex initiation of cell death mechanisms in HRT-18 cells, which are derived from human colorectal adenocarcinoma of the ileocecal region and are used for studying the anticancer effects of piperine. Significant cellular changes, such as cell growth suppression, cell cycle arrest at the G₀/G₁ phase, and the production of damaging hydroxyl radicals, are the main attributes of this mechanism. In colorectal cancer (CRC), the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway eliminates cancer cells by releasing cytochrome c from the mitochondria. This release triggers the activation of caspase-9, followed by caspase-3, ultimately resulting in cell death. This sequence of events effectively overcomes the defense systems of cells, including anti-apoptotic proteins such as survivin, which is upregulated by the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/AKT signaling pathway to increase cell survival and resistance to treatment (Abraha And Ketema ref. 2016; Leiphrakpam And Are ref. 2024). The PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is a crucial signaling network that, when disrupted, promotes increased cellular growth, survival, and metabolism, thereby giving cancer cells a proliferative edge (Li et al. ref. 2024). A study revealed that piperine triggered the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway, which is characterized by the release of cytochrome c, the activation of caspase-9 and caspase-3, and the suppression of survival pathways. This multistep process efficiently removes the cancer cell’s defense mechanisms by decreasing the expression of survivin and disrupting the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway (Yaffe et al. ref. 2015).

Recent research has revealed that piperine can lead to autophagy-dependent cell death in CRC cells in addition to conventional apoptosis. These alternate methods include auto-phagosome accumulation, AKT/mTOR signaling pathway suppression, and increased reactive oxygen species generation. These mechanisms have minimal effects on healthy colonic epithelial cells and exhibit exceptional selectivity toward cancer cells (Xia et al. ref. 2024). These findings are further supported by (Shao and Wu ref. 2021), who reported that piperine upregulates the p53 signaling pathway and alters the equilibrium of Bcl-2 family proteins by activating caspases. Figure 5 summarizes the mechanism of apoptosis identified in these studies in detail.

Oncogenic pathway inhibition

CRC is driven by various oncologic signaling pathways, including the Wnt/β-catenin, RAS/RAF/MEK/ERK, transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) circuits and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3/Snail pathway) (Li et al. ref. 2024). The Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is the central mechanism involved in the development and progression of CRC because it is involved in cellular growth, stem cell renewal, angiogenesis, epithelial‒mesenchymal transition (EMT), metastasis, and chemo-resistance (He And Gan ref. 2023). Mutations in pathway components, specifically tumor suppressor adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), lead to the nuclear accumulation of β-catenin and the activation of target genes that further support the proliferation and survival of CRC cells. Mutation or loss of APC function leads to uncontrolled cell growth and is strongly associated with the development of colorectal cancer (Noe et al. ref. 2021). The epithelial‒mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process that converts polarized epithelial cells into mesenchymal cells, which are known for their increased mobility and invasive capabilities. EMT plays a crucial role in the metastasis and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC), particularly in terms of invasion, internal infiltration, and colonization. In addition to promoting metastasis, EMT aids cancer cells in adapting to various microenvironments, acquiring stem cell-like traits, undergoing metabolic changes, and evading treatments (Nie et al. ref. 2025). The STAT3/Snail pathway is a significant regulator of EMT in CRC, with STAT3 enhancing the expression and stabilization of Snail, a key transcription factor that suppresses epithelial markers and promotes mesenchymal characteristics (Hashemi et al. ref. 2023). This STAT3/Snail pathway contributes to tumor invasion and metastasis and is also associated with the development of cancer stem cell properties, further increasing CRC aggressiveness and resistance to therapy (Gargalionis et al. ref. 2021).

The anticancer potential of piperine includes the inhibition of significant oncogenic signaling pathways, which are illustrated in detail in Fig. 6. According to de Almeida et al. (ref. 2020), piperine can block the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, which is a major growth factor in cancer cells. It also selectively inhibits CRC proliferation by inducing cell cycle arrest and hindering cellular migration by blocking β-catenin nuclear translocation. Another study focused on the impact of piperine on epithelial‒mesenchymal transition (EMT), a key step in cancer metastasis. It inhibits the invasion and migration of cells via the STAT3/Snail pathway. This is accomplished by impeding STAT3 phosphorylation, decreasing the production of mesenchymal markers such as vimentin, and increasing the expression of E-cadherin (Song et al. ref. 2020).

Inflammatory and stress response modulation

Inflammatory and stress response pathways play crucial roles in the development and progression of CRC through signaling modules such as the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway; the NF-κB and lithocholic acid (LCA)-induced Src/epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathways; and the JAK/STAT and COX2/PGE₂ pathways. These factors affect tumor microenvironment, metabolism, and immune system (Mariani et al. ref. 2014; Wei et al. ref. 2022; Li And Huang ref. 2024). The Nrf2/Keap1 pathway in colorectal cancer has dual functions: it typically shields colon cells from oxidative stress and inflammation by enhancing antioxidant and detoxification enzymes, thereby lowering cancer risk. However, when it is overexpressed, it can aid in tumor survival, metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy, making its balanced regulation essential for both cancer prevention and treatment strategies (Lee et al. ref. 2021). The NF-κB pathway is crucial in CRC as it regulates inflammation, cell proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis, metastasis, and drug resistance. It is often persistently activated in CRC cells, fostering tumor growth and survival while enabling cancer cells to evade cell death. NF-κB functions by increasing the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (e.g., TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6) and anti-apoptotic proteins, contributing to a pro-tumorigenic microenvironment. Its activation is associated with chemotherapy resistance, making NF-κB a potential therapeutic target in CRC (Bahrami et al. ref. 2024). Additionally, pathogen-induced activation of NF-κB (such as by Fusobacterium nucleatum) can further drive CRC progression through inflammation and cell invasion mechanisms (Galasso et al. ref. 2025).

Lithocholic acid (LCA), a secondary bile acid, induces interleukin-8 (IL-8) expression in CRC cells, particularly through the activation of the Src/epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling pathway. LCA-induced activation of Src and EGFR triggers downstream signaling via the ERK1/2 and AKT pathways, which increase IL-8 expression. This upregulation of IL-8 promotes angiogenesis and tumor progression in CRC. Notably, inhibiting EGFR and Src activity, such as with compounds such as piperine, can suppress LCA-stimulated IL-8 expression, reducing CRC cell angiogenesis and invasiveness. Thus, LCA promotes CRC progression through Src/EGFR-driven IL-8 expression, and targeting these pathways may reduce tumor growth and metastasis (Li et al. ref. 2022; Nguyen et al. ref. 2017).

The influence of piperine on inflammatory pathways and cellular stress responses (Fig. 7) highlights that it enhances cellular defense mechanisms and the activity of antioxidant enzymes through the Nrf-2/Keap-1 pathway. Moreover, it inhibits NF-κB activation, further decreasing the expression of mediators and pro-inflammatory cytokines that aid in cancer development (Rehman et al. ref. 2020). Piperine also inhibits lithocholic acid (LCA)-stimulated interleukin-8 (IL-8) expression by suppressing epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and Scr in HCT-116 cells (Li et al. ref. 2022). Figure 8 summarizes the mechanism underlying the inhibitory effect of piperine on LCA-induced IL-8 expression in HCT-116 cells and its effect on CRC-derived angiogenesis in the tumor microenvironment.

Potential of piperine in combinatorial therapies

As discussed earlier, piperine is considered a natural bio-enhancer for exploring this property, and many preclinical studies have been conducted over the years with a wide range of compounds, including chemotherapeutic drugs, radiation, and nutraceuticals. Table 5 summarizes the key research examining the synergistic role of piperine in combination therapy in CRC models.

Conventional therapies

Over the last decade, administering anticancer medications to cancer patients with stage III and IV CRC, either alone or in combination with other drugs, has significantly improved their chances of living longer (Anand et al. ref. 2023). Research has shown that piperine can reduce the therapeutic dose of chemotherapeutic medications, making them less hazardous because of additive or synergistic effects. Through the control of several signaling pathways, piperine has been acknowledged for its substantial contributions to the treatment and management of a variety of malignancies, thereby addressing the issue of chemo-resistance (Manickasamy et al. ref. 2024). In one study, piperine increased the oral bioavailability of celecoxib both in vitro and in vivo by acting as a bio-enhancer. In HT-29 cells, this combination decreased the expression of stemness markers and increased cytotoxicity, ROS generation, caspase activation, apoptosis, and mitochondrial dysfunction. A mechanism involving the suppression of COX-2 activity mediated this synergistic effect. The reduction in HT-29 cell tumorosphere-forming ability and the expression of stemness markers suggest other mechanisms by which this synergism prevents tumor formation. Additionally, in vivo research has shown that induced β-catenin degradation and Axin stabilization adversely regulate Wnt/β-catenin signaling molecules and simultaneously halt the cell cycle at the G₁ phase by lowering cyclin D1 (Srivastava et al. ref. 2021).

The effectiveness of piperine in increasing the radio-sensitivity of colorectal cancer cells (HT-29) was examined in another study. Following treatment with piperine, the HT-29 cells were exposed to 1.25 Gy of gamma radiation. To clarify the mechanisms of this combined treatment in contrast to each treatment given separately, researchers have investigated a number of pathways via flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and immunoblot assays. The combination treatment halted HT-29 cells in the G₂/M phase 2.8 times more efficiently than did radiation alone, causing cell death via a mitochondria-dependent route. There was a noticeable increase in key cell death mechanisms, such as caspase-3 activation and poly(ADP‒ribose) polymerase-1 cleavage. The activation of estrogen receptor beta (ERβ), which aids in tumor suppression, represents a recent advancement in the treatment and prevention of cancer. Overall, by preventing DNA damage, apoptosis, and cancer cell line proliferation, piperine increases the radio-sensitization of colon cancer cell lines (Shaheer et al. ref. 2020).

In a different study, scientists reported that when apatinib and piperine were administered together, HCT-116 cells presented reduced glutathione peroxidase activity, decreased MDM2 gene expression, decreased cell viability, and increased nitric oxide levels. By examining the MDM-2 gene expression ratio, the possible harmful mechanisms of these substances were investigated. As either the piperine or apatinib concentration increased, the rate of CRC cell growth decreased. Synergistic effects were observed when HCT-116 cells were treated with different doses of piperine and apatinib. Compared with those in untreated control cells and those subjected to individual treatments, MDM-2 gene expression was downregulated, and nitric oxide (NO) levels were increased in cells treated with both apatinib and piperine. Furthermore, compared with that in the individual treatments, the glutathione peroxidase activity was considerably lower in the combined treatment. The proliferation of CRC cells was strongly inhibited by the combination of piperine and apatinib. The inhibition of antioxidant indicators and the control of MDM-2 gene expression caused these harmful effects (Mohammadian et al. ref. 2022).

With other natural compounds

Piperine exhibits synergistic potential when combined with other natural compounds for CRC treatment, particularly in strengthening its anticancer potential by increasing cell death, inhibiting proliferation, and modulating key signaling pathways. Using human HT29 and HCT116 colon cancer cell lines, piperine was combined with curcumin and cannabis derivatives (cannabidiol/cannabigerol) to show therapeutic potential in colon carcinoma. This triple combination activated the Hippo/YAP signaling system, which caused apoptosis and decreased cell viability (Yüksel et al. ref. 2023). Curcumin and piperine were combined to create emulsomes to increase their limited bioavailability and produce a synergistic anticancer effect in an in vitro colon cancer model. By analyzing cell shape, viability, uptake, apoptotic cell death, the cell cycle, and caspase-3 gene expression levels, the effects of the combined therapy were evaluated, and insights into the molecular interactions of these active chemicals with HCT116 cancer cells were obtained. Aggregation, a spherical form, and shrinking are morphological alterations that suggest the activation of apoptosis. Further evidence of apoptosis induced by the combined therapy was provided by the observation of cell cycle arrest at the G₂/M phase and an increase in the number of Annexin V-positive cells. The anticancer activity of curcumin and piperine emulsomes is enhanced by a six-fold increase in caspase-3 gene expression levels (Bolat et al. ref. 2020).

Researchers have shown that the combined use of piperine and curcumin can decrease the activity of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) signaling and mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) in the intestinal lining, suggesting that it has great potential to address inflammation and cancer development in patients with colorectal cancer. Whether taken independently or in combination, CUR and PIP can inhibit intestinal lining mTORC1 signaling, which may have consequences for the development of cancer and inflammatory diseases. Compared with CUR, PIP was found to be a less effective inhibitor of mTORC1 in HT-29 and Caco-2 cells, except in differentiated Caco-2 cells. Compared with CUR alone, the combination of CUR and PIP resulted in more pronounced inhibition of mTORC1, indicating an additive effect. Given that PIP independently suppresses mTORC1 and may also increase the effectiveness of CUR by increasing its bioavailability, the interaction between PIP and CUR appears to be more intricate (Kaur et al. ref. 2018). Piperine has the potential to increase the bioavailability of EGCG, a compound found in green tea. Mechanistically, piperine seems to inhibit the glucuronidation of EGCG in the small intestine, which could lead to increased absorption. Additionally, piperine slows the gastrointestinal transit of EGCG, thereby extending its residence time in the intestine and facilitating greater absorption. The increased plasma bioavailability of EGCG and piperine could increase their cancer-preventive effects in vivo (Lambert et al. ref. 2004).

Piperine and resveratrol exhibit anticancer effects on B16F10 melanoma and CT26 colon carcinoma cell lines by facilitating apoptosis and suppressing cell proliferation. An increase in cellular damage, which leads to cell cycle arrest and the activation of apoptosis-related proteins such as caspase-3, increases the effectiveness of cancer treatments such as γ-irradiation. Furthermore, both substances have the ability to alter mitochondrial activity and produce reactive oxygen species (ROS), which help destroy cancer cells (Tak et al. ref. 2012). Piperine, when combined with PGV-1, a curcumin analog, enhances anti-colon cancer activity. These findings demonstrate that piperine significantly synergizes with PGV-1 at low concentrations, leading to increased suppression of colon cancer cell viability. Piperine’s targeting of particular proteins that are overexpressed in colon cancer cells—particularly AURKA (Aurora kinase A) and CDK1, which are important regulators of cell cycle progression—is what causes this synergy. According to protein prediction analyses, piperine and PGV-1 share overlapping targets, especially CDK1, which suggests that piperine may block cell cycle regulators and thus promote apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. Additionally, the overexpression of other target proteins, such as AURKA and CDK1, is correlated with poorer patient survival, indicating that disrupting these pathways with combination therapies can be effective (Ikawati et al. ref. 2023). In future, it will be necessary to conduct more preclinical and clinical studies using piperine in combination with other available therapeutic regimens to evaluate its pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic interactions with standard chemotherapeutic agents and other natural compounds, such as nutraceuticals.

Comparison of the roles of piperine with those of other alkaloids

Comparing the activity of piperine with that of other well-known alkaloids is necessary because alkaloids are among the most diverse and extensively studied classes of phytochemicals. By producing reactive oxygen species (ROS), inhibiting the Wnt/β-catenin and STAT3 pathways, reversing the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), and other mechanisms, piperine has anticancer effects on colorectal cancer (CRC) models (Song et al. ref. 2020; de Almeida et al. ref. 2020). The IC₅₀ values are approximately 84.5 µM at 24 h and approximately 46.3 µM with longer exposure in HCT116 cells, and its direct cytotoxicity is comparatively mild despite these complex mechanisms (Jan et al. ref. 2025). Piperine is essential not only for its direct anti-proliferative effects but also because it can be used as an adjuvant to increase the bioavailability and efficacy of other medications.

Colchicine, an alkaloid from Colchicum pusillum, has strong anti-proliferative effects through the modulation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In metastatic Colo-741 cells, colchicine treatment increased β-catenin and LGR-5 while suppressing Wnt7a and activating caspase-3-mediated apoptosis. However, the IC50 value of ~ 20 μg/mL at 48 h was accompanied by high toxicity in non-metastatic cells, reflecting poor selectivity (Becer et al. ref. 2019). Compared with piperine, colchicine is more potently cytotoxic but lacks a chemopreventive safety profile. Reflexin A, which is isolated from Rauvolfia reflexa, has demonstrated significant anticancer potential with selectivity for malignant cells. In HCT-116 and HT-29 CRC models, Reflexin A triggered apoptosis via caspase-3/7, 8 and 9 activation, induced G₁ phase arrest, and inhibited cell migration and invasion, with IC₅₀ values decreasing from ~ 30 μM at 24 h to ~ 16 μM at 72 h (Fadaeinasab et al. ref. 2020). This profile suggests stronger direct apoptotic and antimetastatic effects than piperine does although the latter results in broader multi-pathway modulation.

Fungal metabolites such as Chaetocochin J from Chaetomium represent another class of highly potent alkaloids. With sub-micro-molar IC₅₀ values (0.56–0.65 μM), chaetocochin J induces both apoptosis and autophagy by activating AMPK while inhibiting the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, thereby disrupting central metabolic and survival signaling (Hu et al. ref. 2021). While markedly more potent than piperine is, its cytotoxic profile suggests potential therapeutic applications in aggressive CRC contexts, in contrast to piperine’s suitability for long-term chemoprevention owing to its lower toxicity and wider mechanistic range. Caulerpin offers a structurally novel framework with IC50 values of 10–30 μM in HCT116 cells (Mert-Ozupek et al. ref. 2022). Although mechanistic studies remain limited, related compounds indicate that mitochondria-mediated apoptosis involves ROS generation and caspase activation. Compared with piperine, these marine alkaloids are more directly cytotoxic but lack detailed pharmacologic characterization. Piperine, by contrast, benefits from extensive mechanistic evidence across multiple oncogenic pathways.

Unlike these direct cytotoxic agents, berberine, which is derived from Coptis chinensis, has a microbiome-centered chemo-preventive mechanism. In an AOM/DSS-induced murine model of colitis-associated CRC, oral berberine (50–100 mg/kg) significantly reduced the tumor burden by remodeling the gut flora. This was associated with elevated short-chain fatty acids, restoration of intestinal barrier proteins (Occludin, ZO-1), reduced lipopolysaccharide levels, and inhibition of the TLR4/NF-κB/IL-6/p-STAT3 axis (Yan et al. ref. 2022). Unlike piperine, which primarily acts within cancer cells by modulating intracellular oncogenic signaling, berberine represents an alternative approach through host–microbiota–immune regulation. In addition to these alkaloids, dentatin, which is isolated from Clausena excavata, has shown promising anticancer effects in CRC. In vitro studies using HCT116 and HT29 cells demonstrated that ROS-mediated apoptosis is characterized by the activation of caspase-3/7, 8 and 9, along with the modulation of apoptotic regulators (Bcl-2, Bax). Dentatin also induced G₀/G₁ cell cycle arrest and, importantly, triggered the release of Th1-related cytokines, such as IFN-γ, IL-2, and TNF-α, suggesting dual roles in both apoptosis and immunomodulation. With an IC50 of ~ 19 μM in HCT116 cells, dentatin is more potent than piperine in terms of direct cytotoxicity and offers the additional advantage of enhancing antitumor immunity (Zulpa et al. ref. 2023). In contrast, piperine, although less cytotoxic, influences a wider network of signaling pathways relevant to chemoprevention. To provide a consolidated overview, a summary table (Table 6) has been included highlighting representative alkaloids, their experimental models, signaling pathways, potencies, and comparisons with piperine.

These findings highlight the spectrum of alkaloid activity in CRC. Colchicine, Reflexin A, Chaetocochin J, and Caulerpin act as direct cytotoxic agents with varying potencies and selectivities, whereas berberine exerts its anticancer effects by altering the tumor microenvironment via microbiota remodeling. Piperine falls in between—its direct cytotoxicity is modest compared with that of potent alkaloids such as chaetocochin J, but its strength lies in multi-pathway modulation and chemo-preventive potential with a favorable safety profile. These findings position piperine as a complementary nutraceutical candidate that may be especially valuable in long-term CRC prevention or in synergistic regimens.

Strategies to improve the therapeutic efficacy of piperine

Despite the wide range of pharmacologic characteristics of piperine, its poor water solubility, low bioavailability, and quick metabolic breakdown limit its application in clinical settings (Mitra et al. ref. 2022). Recent developments in nanotechnology have made it easier for researchers to develop delivery methods based on piperine, which are intended to circumvent these restrictions. Piperine’s solubility, cellular uptake, and controlled release have all been improved by the development of a variety of nanoparticles, including polymeric, liposomal, micellar, metallic, and solid lipid-based forms. By facilitating targeted drug distribution and enhancing the ability of piperine to cross biologic membranes, these nano-carriers reduce systemic toxicity (Bose et al. ref. 2023; de Oliveira et al. ref. 2022; Imam et al. ref. 2021; Kiranmayee et al. ref. 2023; Raghunath et al. ref. 2024).

Compared with pure piperine, piperine nanoemulsions have been demonstrated to increase intestinal permeation and improve drug release over those of pure piperine (Alshehri et al. ref. 2023). Compared with conventional suspensions, piperine-loaded lipid‒polymer hybrid nanoparticles (PPN‒LPHNPs) exhibit excellent colloidal stability, sustained drug release for up to 24 h, and a 6.02-fold increase in intestinal permeation. These attributes result in more than a fourfold increase in oral bioavailability and, importantly, superior cytotoxic effects against the breast cancer cell lines MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 (Kazmi et al. ref. 2022). Similarly, hydroxyapatite nanoparticle-based systems provide targeted delivery to colon cancer cells, with slow release kinetics, functionalization for folic acid targeting, and notably enhanced tumor cell inhibition while minimizing toxicity to normal cells (AbouAitah et al. ref. 2020). Combination nano-formulations that incorporate curcumin and piperine have demonstrated the selective suppression of prostate cancer cell migration and proliferation, reducing off-target toxicity in healthy cells. These nanocarrier systems enhance cellular uptake, stability, and tumor targeting and allow for lower doses with sustained anticancer activity (Yakubu et al. ref. 2025).

Piperine analogs, which are structural modifications of piperine, have also been studied to enhance its pharmacologic profile and bioavailability and reduce toxicity (Joshi et al. ref. 2023). Various piperine analogs have been designed to improve water solubility, metabolic stability, and biologic activity by altering their functional groups or isomeric forms. Some analogs aim to retain the bio-enhancing properties of piperine while minimizing off-target effects, thereby providing better therapeutic indices. These analogs, combined with advanced delivery systems, represent a promising approach to increase the clinical potential of piperine-derived compounds (Joshi et al. ref. 2023; Tripathi et al. ref. 2022). Research on piperine analogs has focused on improving their anticancer properties and managing drug resistance. Low-molecular-weight analogs, such as Pip1 and Pip2, have been engineered to potently inhibit P-glycoprotein (P-gp), an efflux transporter implicated in multidrug resistance in cancers. These analogs significantly enhanced the accumulation and efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents (vincristine, colchicine, and paclitaxel) in P-gp-overexpressing cervical and colon cancer cells, resulting in up to a ninefold reversal of drug resistance, comparable to that of standard P-gp inhibitors such as verapamil. Molecular docking and simulation studies further confirmed that these analogs outcompeted piperine in terms of binding affinity for P-gp. In prostate cancer investigations, the piperine analog Pip2 displayed the strongest inhibition of the Akt1 pathway, with a high predicted binding affinity and potentially enhanced chemotherapeutic impact compared with native piperine. These analogs either retain or enhance cytotoxic activity while potentially reducing off-target effects or toxicity (Prakash ref. 2023; Syed et al. ref. 2017).

Conclusion and future perspectives

Alkaloids are a structurally diverse class of natural compounds with notable anticancer potential. Piperine has emerged as a promising candidate for colorectal cancer (CRC) therapy owing to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and multi-target mechanisms. Preclinical evidence highlights its ability to induce apoptosis; regulate autophagy; suppress oncogenic signaling pathways, such as Wnt/β-catenin, STAT3/Snail-EMT, and PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathways; and modulate inflammatory and oxidative stress responses, collectively resulting in reduced cell proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, and metastasis. In addition, piperine functions as a natural bio-enhancer, enhancing the bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy of chemotherapeutics, radiotherapy, and nutraceuticals, positioning it as a valuable adjuvant in cancer therapy. Despite these promising findings, several gaps remain that hinder translational progress. However, its poor aqueous solubility, rapid metabolism, low oral bioavailability, and short half-life limit its systemic stability. Safety concerns regarding higher doses, particularly reproductive toxicity and gastrointestinal irritation, necessitate careful dose optimization. Moreover, most studies remain confined to in vitro and a few rodent models, with a lack of standardized dosing protocols, validated CRC models, and detailed pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles. The absence of well-structured clinical trials is one of the most significant barriers to clinical translation, with potential challenges of resistance and reduced efficacy with long-term piperine treatment.

Therefore, future research should focus on overcoming these challenges via a multipronged approach. Standardized preclinical investigations using validated CRC models are essential for establishing reproducibility, defining dose‒response relationships, and confirming safety. Comprehensive pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic studies are needed to better understand absorption, metabolism, drug–drug interactions, and drug–nutrient interactions. Pharmaceutical innovations, such as nanotechnology-based formulations, including liposomes, polymeric nanoparticles, micelles, and lipid-based carriers, offer practical solutions for improving solubility, stability, and bioavailability. In parallel, structural analogs and derivatives of piperine should be explored to increase its potency, specificity, and resistance-modulating capacity. Given its role as a bio-enhancer, systematic evaluations of piperine in combination with chemotherapeutics, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and nutraceuticals, such as curcumin, resveratrol, and cannabinoids, are warranted to harness its synergistic potential. Importantly, combination studies with other alkaloids should also be prioritized as multi-alkaloid formulations may offer additive or synergistic modulation of oncogenic pathways while reducing resistance. Early-phase clinical trials (Phase I/II) are needed to establish the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of this combination therapy in CRC patients, which will pave the way for larger multicenter studies. By integrating molecular insights, advanced delivery systems, and rigorous clinical validation, piperine can move beyond its current preclinical promise and be developed as a safe and effective adjunct for colorectal cancer management.

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