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Progress in the application and mechanism of metformin in treating non-small cell lung cancer
Chan Li1, Yang Xue1, Yu-Rong Xi1
1Department of Oncology, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences and Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, P.R. China.
Abstract:
At present, the incidence and mortality of lung cancer demonstrate an increasing trend. Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) accounts for ~80-85% of all lung cancer cases. Therefore, developing novel and more effective treatments is of great importance. The use of combination therapies, where several anticancer agents are used together, is a promising strategy. Recent studies demonstrate that metformin, which has been utilized for treating diabetes mellitus for >50 years, has antitumor effects in numerous types of cancer including NSCLC. Its antitumor effects can be direct and indirect, and it is able to synergize with other physical therapies including targeted anticancer therapy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The present review discusses how metformin affects cellular energy metabolism in NSCLC, the mechanism of its antitumor action and its synergy with other therapies. Information and analysis are provided in the present review to stimulate further studies on metformin as an adjunct anticancer treatment.
Insights
Metformin, a diabetes drug, shows promise as an effective non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treatment. This review explores its antitumor mechanisms and synergistic effects with other therapies for improved cancer care.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Metabolic pathways
- Cancer therapy
Background:
- Lung cancer, particularly non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), has a rising incidence and mortality rate.
- Novel and effective treatments for NSCLC are urgently needed.
- Metformin, a widely used diabetes medication, exhibits potential antitumor properties in various cancers, including NSCLC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effects of metformin on cellular energy metabolism in NSCLC.
- To elucidate the mechanisms underlying metformin's antitumor activity.
- To explore the synergistic potential of metformin with other cancer treatments.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on metformin's role in NSCLC.
- Analysis of metformin's impact on cellular metabolism.
- Examination of metformin's interactions with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and targeted therapy.
Main Results:
- Metformin influences cellular energy metabolism in NSCLC cells.
- Metformin demonstrates direct and indirect antitumor effects.
- Metformin can synergize with conventional cancer therapies.
Conclusions:
- Metformin presents a promising adjunct treatment strategy for NSCLC.
- Further research into metformin's anticancer applications is warranted.
- Combination therapies involving metformin may enhance treatment efficacy for NSCLC patients.
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