The transcriptional machinery is composed of numerous factors that help to regulate gene expression in cells. The function and the fundamental role of
transcription factors in different human diseases and
cancer have been extensively researched.
Activator protein-1 (AP-1) is an inducible
transcription factor that consists of a diverse group of members including Jun, Fos, Maf, and ATF.
AP-1 involves a number of processes such as proliferation, migration, and survival in cells. Dysfunctional
AP-1 activity is seen in several diseases, especially
cancer and inflammatory disorders. The
AP-1 proteins are controlled by
mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) and the NF-κB pathway.
AP-1 inhibitors can be actively pursued as drug discovery targets in
cancer therapy when used as a treatment to halt
tumor progression. The consumption of
phytochemicals in the diet is related to decreasing the incidence of
cancer and proves to exhibit anticancer properties. Natural product targets
AP-1 are effective
cancer prevention and treatment options for various
cancer types. Targeting
AP-1 with natural products is an effective
cancer treatment option for different
cancer types. This review summarizes
AP-1 subunit
proteins, their structures, AP-1-related signaling, and its modulation by natural bioactive compounds.