Terpenoids mediated cell apoptotsis in cervical cancer: Mechanisms, advances and prospects

Cervical cancer remains one of the most common malignancies among women globally, causing hundreds of thousands of deaths annually. Despite widespread vaccination and screening programs, the incidence of cervical cancer remains high in developing countries. This review aims to systematically summarize the existing terpenoids effective in preventing cervical cancer, elucidate their potential mechanisms in the prophylaxis and treatment of cervical cancer, and assess the limitations of current studies. Studies have shown that terpenoids can decrease the incidence of cervical cancer and promote apoptosis of cancer cells through various signaling pathways, including the PI3K/AKT pathway, the endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) pathway, and the mitochondria- and caspase-dependent cell death pathways. Furthermore, some terpenoids have been found to enhance the sensitivity to chemotherapy drugs, thus improving patients' quality of life. Terpenoids play a significant role in inhibiting the progression of cervical cancer. However, due to their diversity and complex mechanisms of action, further research is necessary to investigate their specific targets and bioactivities to advance their clinical trials and applications. [Display omitted] •Terpenoids promote caspase-dependent apoptosis in cervical cancer cells by modulating PI3K/AKT and ERS.•Terpenoids enhance the sensitivity to chemotherapy in cervical cancer cells.•Multiple recommendations are proposed for future strategies in the application of terpenoids in treatment of cervical cancer.