One of the significant challenges confronting the field of biomedical engineering today is the effective treatment of cancers. According to a 2020 report, there were an estimated 19.3 million new cancer cases worldwide, with 10.0 million resulting in fatalities [1]. This global prevalence underscores that approximately 52 percent of cases lead to death if not addressed promptly [2]. Leukemia, a relatively uncommon form of cancer, originates from the body's blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and the lymphatic system [3]. This type of cancer triggers the metastasis of white blood cells, impairing the human immune system [4]. Due to the compromised immune system and the spread of blood cells, the 5-year relative survival rate for individuals aged 20 and older with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is only 28%. [5] Despite chemotherapy being the standard treatment for AML, it comes with the drawback of damaging white blood cells, resulting in a weakened immune system and severe consequences [6]. Hence, the quest for an alternative inhibitory treatment method persists—one that can mitigate the severity of cancer without causing harm to the surrounding cells.
Vitamins, indispensable elements vital for proper metabolism, have evolved beyond their fundamental role and emerged as therapeutic agents, particularly for regenerative applications [7, 8]. The utilization of vitamins in therapeutic contexts stems not only from their medicinal efficacy but also from their relatively lesser-known side effects [9–12]. In contemporary medicinal research, vitamins and their derivatives have garnered substantial attention as promising candidates for cancer-related treatments [13]. Recent studies highlight the pivotal role of vitamin D in impeding the growth of sarcomas [14]. Additionally, investigations reveal that intravenous release of vitamin C can ameliorate the treatment of ovarian cancers [15]. Controlled delivery of retinoids or vitamin A derivatives has shown promise in diminishing the risk of inducing carcinoma in the stomach [16]. The University of Chicago underscores that the release of retinol derivatives can enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy, expediting recovery [17]. Extensive research on vitamin K, a well-established therapeutic agent, indicates its inhibitory effects on cancer growth [18]. Furthermore, recent findings associate vitamin K intake with a reverse correlation to cancer incidence and mortality [19]. Despite the extensive exploration of vitamins and their derivatives in cancer treatment, the impact of vitamin release on AML remains inadequately investigated.
NPM1, or nucleophosmin 1, plays a significant role in the context of AML. NPM1 is a gene that encodes for a nucleolar phosphoprotein involved in various cellular functions, including ribosome biogenesis and centrosome duplication [20]. In AML, NPM1 mutations are one of the most common genetic alterations, particularly in cases with normal cytogenetics [21]. The presence of NPM1 mutations in AML has important diagnostic and prognostic implications [22]. In fact, NPM1 mutations have been incorporated into the World Health Organization (WHO) classification criteria for AML [23]. Typically, these mutations involve the cytoplasmic displacement of the NPM1 protein, leading to its accumulation in the cytoplasm rather than its usual localization in the nucleolus [24]. The detection of NPM1 mutations has become a valuable tool in the diagnostic workup of AML [25]. From a prognostic perspective, AML patients with NPM1 mutations, especially those without concurrent FLT3-ITD (FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3 - internal tandem duplication) mutations, are considered to have a more favorable prognosis. This subset of AML patients often responds well to standard chemotherapy and exhibits a higher likelihood of achieving complete remission. Furthermore, the understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying NPM1-mutated AML is driving targeted therapeutic research [26, 27]. Efforts are underway to develop treatments that specifically address the unique biology associated with NPM1 mutations, offering more tailored and effective interventions for individuals with AML harboring these genetic alterations.
Another crucial protein in the context of AML is FLT3, playing a significant role. FLT3, or FMS-like tyrosine kinase 3, holds considerable significance in the context of AML [28]. It is a receptor tyrosine kinase that plays a pivotal role in regulating the growth and differentiation of hematopoietic cells [29]. In AML, FLT3 mutations are among the most frequent genetic alterations. Mutations in the FLT3 gene, particularly internal tandem duplications (FLT3-ITD), lead to constitutive activation of the FLT3 receptor, resulting in uncontrolled cell proliferation and resistance to apoptosis [30]. The presence of FLT3 mutations is associated with adverse prognostic implications in AML, indicating a higher risk of relapse and poorer overall survival. Due to its prominence in AML pathogenesis, FLT3 has become a key target for therapeutic interventions [31]. Several FLT3 inhibitors have been developed and are actively being investigated in clinical trials. These inhibitors aim to counteract the aberrant signaling pathways triggered by FLT3 mutations, thereby hindering the growth and survival of leukemia cells [32]. The integration of FLT3 mutational status into the risk stratification of AML patients has become essential for treatment decision-making [33]. The identification of FLT3 mutations not only informs prognosis but also guides the selection of targeted therapies, fostering a more personalized and effective approach to managing AML [34]. Ongoing research continues to deepen our understanding of FLT3 and explore innovative strategies to target this protein for improved outcomes in AML patients.
RUNX1, also known as runt-related transcription factor 1, plays a critical role in the context of AML [35]. It is a transcription factor that contributes to the regulation of normal hematopoiesis by controlling the development and function of blood cells. In AML, the RUNX1 gene is frequently disrupted by mutations or chromosomal translocations, leading to the formation of abnormal fusion proteins [36]. These genetic alterations often result in dysfunctional RUNX1 activity, impairing its ability to regulate gene expression properly [37]. The aberrant function of RUNX1 contributes to the development and progression of AML by promoting uncontrolled cell proliferation and inhibiting the normal maturation of blood cells [38]. RUNX1 mutations are commonly associated with specific subtypes of AML and are considered significant prognostic indicators [39]. AML patients with RUNX1 mutations may exhibit distinct clinical and biological characteristics, influencing disease outcomes and treatment responses [40]. The identification of RUNX1 mutations has become an integral part of the molecular profiling of AML, aiding in risk stratification and treatment decision-making [41]. The evolving understanding of the molecular mechanisms involving RUNX1 in AML has also paved the way for the exploration of targeted therapies that aim to restore normal RUNX1 function or mitigate the effects of its aberrant activity [42].
Ayurveda, an ancient Indian medicinal system with a rich historical legacy, has been harnessed for centuries to address a spectrum of health conditions [43]. This time-honored approach to healing is deeply entrenched in the utilization of natural sources. Despite the scientific discovery of vitamins in the 20th century, their roots extend back to ancient India, where their natural origins were tapped into for addressing various health concerns. The exploration of whether vitamins could potentially alleviate the challenges posed by AML raises critical questions. Can we actively pursue inhibitory treatments for this profoundly lethal form of cancer? In the pursuit of answers, computational simulations have been meticulously conducted. These simulations delve into the intricate interactions between vitamins and diverse gene expressions, with the overarching goal of hindering the growth of AML. This research endeavors not only to enhance our understanding of potential therapeutic avenues but also to contribute significantly to a future marked by improved health and a reduction in the prevalence of cancer.