Uncovering the Anticancer Potential of Lichen Secondary Metabolites

Lichens produce a plethora of primary and secondary metabolites. Secondary metabolites have several biological functions that can be used for human health. Recent studies described their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimycotic, antibiotic/antiviral activities. However, attention has mainly been focused on antiproliferative, cytotoxic, anticancer effects. Because there are many publications describing the molecular mechanisms leading to effects lichen metabolites, aim this review is summarize results from current research with main emphasis atranorin, usnic gyrophoric acid.