Autophagy regulators as potential cancer therapeutic agents: a review

Area of Science:

• Cellular Biology
• Oncology
• Metabolic Pathways

Background:

• Autophagy is a fundamental cellular mechanism for maintaining homeostasis by degrading damaged components.
• Its complex roles in cancer, acting as both a tumor suppressor and a promoter, have garnered significant research interest.
• Autophagy's involvement spans from tumor initiation to progression and resistance to therapy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted role of autophagy in various stages of cancer.
• To discuss the potential of autophagy regulators as anticancer therapeutic agents.
• To highlight current clinical trials involving autophagy-modulating combination therapies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of autophagy's function in cancer.
• Analysis of identified autophagy regulators for therapeutic potential.
• Examination of combination regimens involving autophagy modulators.

Main Results:

• Autophagy can suppress tumor initiation but also aid tumor growth and survival.
• Autophagy regulators are being explored as cancer therapeutics.
• Cytotoxic drugs often induce autophagy, suggesting complex interactions.
• Combination therapies show promise and are in clinical trials.

Conclusions:

• Autophagy presents a complex target in cancer therapy due to its dual functions.
• Modulating autophagy holds significant potential for developing new anticancer strategies.
• Further research and clinical trials are crucial for optimizing autophagy-based cancer treatments.