Review of synergistic anticancer effects of natural compounds combined with conventional therapeutics against chemoresistance and progression of pancreatic cancer

Background: According to cancer statistics from 2024, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), the most common type of pancreatic cancer, ranks third in terms of mortality worldwide and has one of the worst 5 year survival rates among all cancers. The heterogeneity of PDAC microenvironments contributes to chemotherapeutic resistance. Recent findings: Currently, surgical resection and chemotherapy are the primary treatment approaches for PDAC. However, the pharmaceutical efficacy of conventional therapies is limited. Combining standard therapy with natural compounds has recently garnered attention because of their synergistic effects in eliminating cancer cells. This approach allows for lower and safer drug concentrations to be used for PDAC treatment. Purpose of review: This review aims to comprehensively summarize and analyze the literature regarding the synergistic mechanisms of natural compounds in combination with conventional therapies against PDAC. Conclusion: The combined therapy of natural compounds with conventional treatments, including several chemotherapeutic agents and molecular targeted therapy, can enhance the pharmaceutical effectiveness of conventional therapies. Although many efforts are required for natural compounds to be successfully incorporated into clinical use for PDAC treatment, the combined therapy of natural compounds with conventional treatment has the potential to treat PDAC effectively.