Clotrimazole as a Cancer Drug: A Short Review
S Kadavakollu1, C Stailey1, C S Kunapareddy1
1Department of Natural Sciences, Western New Mexico University, Silver City, NM, 88061, USA.
Medicinal Chemistry
|January 29, 2016
Summary
Clotrimazole, initially an antifungal, shows anticancer potential by inhibiting cancer cell energy production and promoting cell death. This drug and its derivatives offer a new avenue for cancer therapy research.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
Background:
- Clotrimazole is a well-established antifungal agent.
- Emerging research suggests clotrimazole possesses anticancer properties.
- Its mechanism involves targeting cancer cell metabolism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the anticancer mechanisms of clotrimazole.
- To explore the potential of clotrimazole and its derivatives in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Investigating the inhibition of mitochondrial-bound glycolytic enzymes.
- Assessing the impact on calmodulin activity.
- Evaluating effects on cancer cell proliferation, cell cycle, and apoptosis.
Main Results:
- Clotrimazole inhibits key enzymes essential for cancer cell energy production.
- It disrupts calmodulin function, further starving cancer cells.
- Demonstrated reduction in cancer cell proliferation rates.
- Induction of G1 phase arrest in cancer cells.
- Promotion of apoptosis, leading to cancer cell death.
Conclusions:
- Clotrimazole's anticancer effects stem from metabolic disruption and apoptosis induction.
- Clotrimazole and its derivatives represent promising candidates for novel cancer therapies.
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