Solasodine-derived steroidal alkaloids as dual modulators of PI3K/Akt signaling and metabolic reprogramming in breast cancer.

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent malignancies among women, with persistent challenges related to tumor heterogeneity, therapeutic resistance, and disease recurrence. Among the key molecular drivers, the phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling pathway plays a central role in promoting tumor growth, survival, and metabolic adaptation. In parallel, metabolic reprogramming has emerged as a defining feature of cancer, enabling malignant cells to sustain rapid proliferation and resist treatment.

OBJECTIVE

This review explores the emerging potential of solasodine-derived steroidal alkaloids as dual modulators of PI3K/Akt signaling and metabolic reprogramming in breast cancer, with emphasis on mechanistic integration and therapeutic relevance.

METHODS

A systematic and reproducible literature search was conducted using major scientific databases, focusing on studies published between 2021 and 2026. Relevant articles addressing solasodine derivatives, PI3K/Akt signaling, and cancer metabolism were critically screened and synthesized to provide a coherent and evidence-based narrative.

RESULTS

Accumulating evidence suggests that solasodine and its derivatives exert inhibitory effects on key components of the PI3K/Akt pathway while simultaneously influencing metabolic processes such as glycolysis, lipid biosynthesis, and mitochondrial function. These dual actions may disrupt the adaptive capacity of breast cancer cells and enhance therapeutic sensitivity.

CONCLUSION

Solasodine-derived compounds represent promising multi-target agents with the capacity to interfere with both oncogenic signaling and metabolic dependencies. Further studies are required to clarify their molecular specificity, optimize their pharmacological properties, and establish their translational potential in breast cancer therapy.