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Potentiation of Anticancer Antibody Efficacy by Antineoplastic Drugs: Detection of Antibody-drug Synergism Using the Combination Index Equation
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Fenbendazole as a potential anticancer drug

Qiwen Duan1, Yanfeng Liu, Sara Rockwell

  • 1Department of Therapeutic Radiology, Yale University School of Medicine, PO Box 208040, New Haven, CT 06520-8040, USA. sara.rockwell@yale.edu

Anticancer Research
|February 9, 2013
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Fenbendazole, an antihelminth drug, showed no significant anticancer effects alone or with radiation and docetaxel in mouse models. Further investigation into this drug class is suggested for potential cancer therapy applications.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Oncology
  • Drug Discovery

Background:

  • Fenbendazole is a broad-spectrum antihelminth.
  • Its mechanism of action shares similarities with hypoxia-selective cytotoxins and taxanes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the anticancer activity of fenbendazole.
  • To assess its efficacy as a single agent and in combination therapies.

Main Methods:

  • In vitro studies using EMT6 mouse mammary tumor cells.
  • In vivo studies using solid EMT6 tumors in mice.
  • Combination treatments with radiation and docetaxel were investigated.

Main Results:

  • Fenbendazole exhibited in vitro toxicity to EMT6 cells, enhanced by incubation time and severe hypoxia.
  • No synergistic effects were observed when combined with radiation or docetaxel; additive toxicities were noted.
  • Fenbendazole did not inhibit tumor growth or potentiate radiation's antineoplastic effects in vivo.

Conclusions:

  • Current evidence does not support fenbendazole's use in cancer therapy.
  • The broader class of compounds warrants further investigation for potential anticancer applications.

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