Apoptotic activity of lectin protein against human breast cancer

Cancer is a complex disease that is characterized by cell proliferation (uncontrolled cell division), cell transformation and an escape from apoptosis and these properties pave the way for invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis. Additionally, cancer has also emerged as a major public health problem in developing countries. According to the World Health Organization, new cases of cancer impairment will increase with estimated death rates of up to 11 million in the year 2030. Although in recent decades much progress has been achieved in respect of therapies, like surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or hormone ablation therapy, they are not successful in more than 50% of cases. Furthermore, for those who survive the risk of reoccurrence of the disease is a major problem. Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies among women worldwide. The existing therapeutic agents for breast cancer produce several side effects. Development of specifically breast cancer cell targeting drug without any side effect to normal cells is an ongoing effort in the field of cancer drug discovery. Cytotoxic chemotherapy plays a vital role in the management of patients.