Antineoplastic Drug Leads from Plants and Microbes

This chapter focuses on antineoplastic lead molecules identified from plants and microbial sources. It discusses the various natural products used in the chemotherapy. The first part of the chapter emphasizes the use of plants in traditional medicinal practices and how modern science has used their potential extractives in treating cancer. The major antineoplastic molecules from plant sources are classified into phenolics, terpenoids, and alkaloids, some of which have been successfully employed to control neoplasms. The second part focuses on antineoplastic lead molecules derived from microbes, particularly bacteria and fungi. These microorganisms produce a diverse array of bioactive compounds with potential anticancer properties. The molecules are classified into antibiotics, statins, enzymes, and enzyme inhibitors, among others. The chapter highlights the promising potential of natural molecules, both from plants and microbes, in targeting key proteins involved in complex cancer pathogenesis. These molecules offer unique chemical structures and mechanisms of action that make them viable candidates for developing novel antineoplastic drugs. Overall, the chapter serves as a valuable resource for researchers and professionals in the field of drug discovery, providing insights into the potential of natural sources for identifying effective antineoplastic agents to combat cancer.