Exploring Palm Oil Derivatives with Immunotherapy Outcomes: A Review

Abstract

Interest in bioactive compounds from natural sources has intensified, driving research into palm oil derivatives for their potential to improve cancer immunotherapy results. Within palm oil, compounds like tocotrienols, tocopherols, carotenoids, and phenolics exhibit notable properties related to antioxidant activity and immune regulation. This study aims to systematically review existing literature to comprehensively assess how palm oil derivatives influence immunotherapy efficacy and safety in cancer treatment. A qualitative research approach was employed using the Systematic Literature Review (SLR) method. Data collection involved a rigorous search of peer-reviewed articles from the ScienceDirect database published between 2021 and 2025. Keywords included "palm oil," "palm oil derivatives," "Elaeis guineensis," and terms related to "immunotherapy," "cancer immunotherapy," and "immune checkpoint." Articles were screened for relevance, open access availability, and publication date, resulting in 29 eligible studies for analysis. Data were systematically extracted and thematically analyzed to identify patterns in mechanistic effects, clinical outcomes, and translational potential. The results demonstrate that palm oil derivatives modulate immune responses by reducing inflammation, enhancing antioxidant defences, and improving immune cell function, thereby potentially increasing immunotherapy effectiveness and reducing adverse effects. Nonetheless, limitations such as low bioavailability and the lack of wide-reaching clinical investigations remain evident. In conclusion, palm oil derivatives show promising adjunctive potential to improve immunotherapy outcomes in cancer treatment. Further research is recommended to optimize formulations, validate clinical efficacy, and establish standardized protocols for clinical application.