Evaluating the Role of Flavonoids as Natural Agents in Preventing Carcinogenesis in Aquatic Species Using the FlavonoidCarcModNet Algorithm

Abstract

Environmental contaminants causing carcinogenesis in aquatic species is alarming considering the threat it poses to ecological systems and biodiversity. The natural polyphenolic compounds known as flavonoids have demonstrated promising anticancer activities across multiple biological systems. This work seeks to explore the capability of flavonoids in preventing carcinogenesis in fish and aquatic invertebrates using the FlavonoidCarcModNet algorithm, which combines elements of machine learning and network biology. Through the mechanisms of DNA damage response, programmed cell death, and free radical response, key molecular targets of apoptosis and oxidative stress were a part of the model which determined the affinities of multiple flavonoids. The algorithm showed quercetin, kaempferol, and apigenin to have strong binding affinities as well as multi-target engagement. The evidence indicates that flavonoids have the ability to modify several carcinogenic pathways concurrently. This suggests that flavonoids act as a natural chemopreventive strategy to help in reducing the risk of cancer in aquatic species. The outcomes of this study lay the groundwork for further experimentation to devise health safeguarding strategies for aquatic species using flavonoids.