Arsenic and its combinations in cancer therapeutics
Vandana Prajapati1, Raosaheb K Kale, Rana P Singh
1Cancer Biology Laboratory, School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi 110067, India.
Abstract:
Arsenic is a metalloid that is considered to be a paradox in terms of its role both as a carcinogen and as a therapeutic agent. Chronic exposure to arsenic in drinking water has been linked with the development of various pathological conditions including cancer. Nevertheless, the therapeutic potential of arsenic and its derivatives in a variety of diseases have been exploited in the past. However, its role and mechanism of action as a therapeutic agent still remain an active area of research and investigation. Our ongoing work also suggests varied responses in cancer cells exposed to lower versus higher concentrations of arsenic. Furthermore, the arsenic combinations with chemopreventive or anticancer agents have been observed to sensitize the cell for cell-cycle arrest and cell death. Here, we have provided the account of recent updates on the mechanism of action of arsenic and its derivatives that lead to various disorders, and its role as a therapeutic agent both as a single agent as well as in combination chemotherapy.
Insights
Arsenic acts as both a carcinogen and a therapeutic agent. Research explores its dual role, revealing its potential in cancer treatment through varied concentrations and combinations with other drugs.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Arsenic is a metalloid with paradoxical roles as a carcinogen and therapeutic agent.
- Chronic arsenic exposure is linked to various pathologies, including cancer.
- The therapeutic applications of arsenic derivatives have historical precedent but require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent updates on arsenic's mechanisms of action in disease development.
- To explore arsenic's therapeutic potential as a single agent and in combination chemotherapy.
- To investigate the differential effects of low versus high arsenic concentrations on cancer cells.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of arsenic's mechanisms of action.
- Analysis of ongoing research on arsenic's effects on cancer cells.
- Examination of arsenic's synergistic effects in combination therapies.
Main Results:
- Arsenic exhibits varied responses in cancer cells depending on concentration.
- Arsenic in combination with chemopreventive or anticancer agents sensitizes cells.
- These combinations promote cell-cycle arrest and cell death.
Conclusions:
- Arsenic's dual role necessitates a deeper understanding of its mechanisms.
- Arsenic and its derivatives hold promise for cancer therapy, particularly in combination regimens.
- Further research is crucial to optimize arsenic-based therapeutic strategies.
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