Abstract

Neuroblastoma is a cancer common to pediatric populations and are categorized as neoplastic growths inside the central and peripheral nervous systems. Neuroblastomas can dissipate early in life or can grow become deadly tumors by metastasizing. For low-risk neuroblastomas, surgery and essential treatments are sufficient for good outcomes. Conversely, high-risk tumors, isolated by specific genetic markers, are being studied in the hopes of one day generating better treatments and patient prognoses. Quercetin (Qu), a flavonoid in plants, has become popular in medical research for its various chemical (antioxidant and anti-inflammatory) and cancer treatment (metabolic regulatory) properties. Qu’s mechanism of action depends on its concentration and the type of cancer. Extensive research using many cancer lines has identified numerous pathways that mediate Qu-induced loss of cell viability. Limited research has been done on neuroblastoma cell lines and quercetin. Future research is needed to identify specific mechanisms of action with concentrations of Qu needed to modify the growth of neuroblastoma cells.

Keywords: Neuroblastoma; MDM2; C-Myc; Apoptosis; Pro-Oxidant; Antioxidant

Abbreviations: MTT: 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide; Qu: Quercetin; ROS: Reactive Oxygen Species; TRAIL: Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand