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Repositioning metformin for cancer prevention and treatment

Brendan J Quinn1, Hiroshi Kitagawa, Regan M Memmott

  • 1Department of Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA.

Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism: TEM
|June 19, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Metformin, a common type 2 diabetes drug, shows potential as an anticancer agent. Research is exploring its mechanisms and effectiveness in cancer patients, including those without diabetes.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Metformin is a widely used medication for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
  • Retrospective studies suggest a correlation between metformin use and reduced cancer risk.
  • This observation has spurred research into metformin's potential anticancer properties.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review proposed mechanisms of metformin's action against cancer.
  • To discuss ongoing clinical trials investigating metformin in cancer treatment.
  • To address challenges in preclinical data consolidation, including mechanisms, bioavailability, and genetic factors.

Main Methods:

  • Review of preclinical data on metformin's anticancer effects.
  • Analysis of proposed molecular mechanisms of action.
  • Summary of ongoing and completed clinical trials involving metformin for cancer.

Main Results:

  • Several preclinical mechanisms suggest metformin's anticancer activity.
  • Clinical trials are exploring metformin's efficacy across various cancer types.
  • Key questions remain regarding metformin's effectiveness in non-diabetic individuals and factors influencing sensitivity.

Conclusions:

  • Metformin exhibits promising anticancer potential, supported by preclinical evidence and ongoing clinical investigations.
  • Further research is needed to elucidate mechanisms, optimize delivery, and identify patient populations who may benefit most.
  • Metformin could represent a cost-effective, well-tolerated therapeutic option for cancer treatment.
Keywords:
AMPKcancerchemopreventiondiabetesmetformin

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