Non-small cell lung cancer is strongly linked to mutations in the EGFR gene, and one of the most common changes is the L858R mutation. This mutation alters the receptor in a way that promotes uncontrolled cell growth and reduces the effectiveness of many existing therapies. Because of this, researchers continue to look for new molecules that can interact with this altered target.
A 2025 study focused on plant-derived phytochemicals and used computer-based screening to evaluate their potential against the EGFR L858R mutant kinase. The team gathered 687 compounds from four well-known medicinal plants: Curcuma longa, Camellia sinensis, Ginkgo biloba and Vitis vinifera. Using molecular docking followed by ADMET analysis, they predicted which compounds might bind well and also behave like drug candidates.
Three flavonoids stood out. Kaempferol, morin and isorhamnetin showed strong binding predictions and favorable drug-likeness profiles, with all three sourced mainly from Ginkgo biloba. The docking analysis suggested that these molecules could fit into the ATP-binding region of the mutant EGFR structure and form interactions that may help block its cancer-promoting action.
Although the work is entirely in silico, it highlights plants as a promising reservoir for new anticancer leads and shows how digital tools can speed early drug discovery. Further laboratory and animal studies are needed to confirm biological activity.
MBH/AB