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Repurposing Drugs in Oncology (ReDO)-Propranolol as an anti-cancer agent
Pan Pantziarka1, Gauthier Bouche2, Vidula Sukhatme3
1Anticancer Fund, Brussels, 1853 Strombeek-Bever, Belgium; The George Pantziarka TP53 Trust, London, UK.
Abstract:
Propranolol (PRO) is a well-known and widely used non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist (beta-blocker), with a range of actions which are of interest in an oncological context. PRO displays effects on cellular proliferation and invasion, on the immune system, on the angiogenic cascade, and on tumour cell sensitivity to existing treatments. Both pre-clinical and clinical evidence of these effects, in multiple cancer types, is assessed and summarised and relevant mechanisms of action outlined. In particular there is evidence that PRO is effective at multiple points in the metastatic cascade, particularly in the context of the post-surgical wound response. Based on this evidence the case is made for further clinical investigation of the anticancer effects of PRO, particularly in combination with other agents. A number of trials are on-going, in different treatment settings for various cancers.
Insights
Propranolol, a beta-blocker, shows promise in cancer treatment by affecting tumor growth, spread, and immune response. Further clinical trials are recommended to explore its full anticancer potential, especially in combination therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Immunology
Background:
- Propranolol (PRO) is a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor antagonist (beta-blocker).
- PRO exhibits diverse biological effects relevant to cancer, including impacts on proliferation, invasion, immunity, and angiogenesis.
- Existing evidence suggests PRO may influence tumor cell sensitivity to conventional treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess pre-clinical and clinical evidence of PRO's anticancer effects across various cancer types.
- To outline the mechanisms of action through which PRO influences cancer progression.
- To advocate for further clinical investigation of PRO in oncology, particularly in combination strategies.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and summary of pre-clinical data.
- Analysis of clinical evidence from multiple cancer studies.
- Evaluation of PRO's role in the metastatic cascade and post-surgical response.
Main Results:
- PRO demonstrates effects on cellular proliferation, invasion, and the immune system.
- Evidence indicates PRO's efficacy at multiple stages of metastasis, including post-surgical wound healing.
- PRO may modulate tumor cell sensitivity to existing cancer therapies.
Conclusions:
- PRO possesses multifaceted anticancer properties warranting further investigation.
- Combination therapy involving PRO shows potential for enhanced anti-cancer efficacy.
- Ongoing clinical trials are exploring PRO's utility in various cancer settings.
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