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Metformin targets multiple signaling pathways in cancer
Yong Lei1,2, Yanhua Yi3, Yang Liu1,2
1Key Laboratory of Longevity and Ageing-related Diseases, Ministry of Education, Nanning, 530021, Guangxi, P. R. China.
Chinese Journal of Cancer
|January 28, 2017
Summary
Metformin, a common type 2 diabetes drug, shows promise as an anticancer agent. Research highlights its role in various cancer signaling pathways and targeting cancer stem cells.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Metformin is a widely used, well-tolerated oral medication for type 2 diabetes.
- Increasing research suggests metformin possesses potential anticancer properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore metformin's potential as an anticancer therapeutic.
- To review metformin's mechanisms of action in key cancer signaling pathways.
- To summarize metformin's role in targeting cancer stem cells.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of metformin's functions in cancer research.
- Analysis of metformin's impact on signaling pathways: AMP-activated protein kinase, mammalian target of rapamycin, insulin-like growth factor, p38 MAPK, HER2, and NF-kappaB.
- Examination of studies on metformin's effects on cancer stem cells.
Main Results:
- Metformin influences multiple cancer-related signaling pathways.
- Evidence suggests metformin impacts cancer stem cell populations.
- The drug's low cost and tolerability are advantageous.
Conclusions:
- Metformin demonstrates significant potential in cancer therapeutics.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate metformin's anticancer mechanisms and clinical applications.
- Metformin may offer a novel, accessible approach to cancer treatment, including targeting cancer stem cells.
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