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GSK-3 Inhibitors: A Double-Edged Sword? - An Update on Tideglusib
Theodore Lemuel Mathuram1, Lisa M Reece2, Kotturathu Mammen Cherian3
1Department of Stem Cell and Tissue Engineering, Frontier Mediville (A Unit of Frontier Lifeline and Dr. K. M. Cherian Heart Foundation), Affiliated to University of Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Abstract:
GSK-3 inhibitors are an emerging tool for clinical interventions in human diseases and represent a niche area in combinational therapy. They possess diverse facets in applications of nervous system disorders, Type 2 diabetes, regenerative medicine and cancer. However, conflicting reports suggest the controversial role of GSK-3 inhibitors in cancers. This review aims to highlight the rise of GSK-3 inhibitors as tools for molecular-targeted research and its shift to a promising drug candidate. The review also focuses on key GSK-3 inhibitors and their roles in cancer and regenerative medicine with special emphasis to tideglusib. In addition, the decisive roles of GSK-3 in various molecular pathways will be concisely reviewed. Finally, this review concludes the emergence of GSK-3 inhibitors as a 'double-edged sword' in the treatment against human diseases cautioning researchers about the potential ramifications of off-target pharmacological effects.
Insights
Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) inhibitors show promise in treating diseases like cancer and aiding regenerative medicine. However, their complex role, especially in cancer, requires careful consideration of potential side effects.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) inhibitors are increasingly explored for therapeutic applications.
- Their roles in nervous system disorders, diabetes, regenerative medicine, and cancer are subjects of ongoing research.
- Conflicting data exists regarding the precise impact of GSK-3 inhibitors in cancer treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolution of GSK-3 inhibitors from research tools to potential drug candidates.
- To highlight the specific roles of key GSK-3 inhibitors in cancer and regenerative medicine, with a focus on tideglusib.
- To provide a concise overview of GSK-3's involvement in critical molecular pathways.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications on GSK-3 inhibitors.
- Analysis of studies investigating GSK-3 inhibitors in cancer and regenerative medicine models.
- Synthesis of information on GSK-3's molecular functions and pathway involvement.
Main Results:
- GSK-3 inhibitors have demonstrated diverse therapeutic potential across multiple disease areas.
- Tideglusib is identified as a key GSK-3 inhibitor with notable applications in cancer and regenerative medicine.
- The dual role of GSK-3 inhibitors, acting as a 'double-edged sword,' is evident in their complex effects.
Conclusions:
- GSK-3 inhibitors represent a significant advancement in molecular-targeted therapies.
- Their application requires careful consideration due to potential off-target effects and controversial roles in certain diseases like cancer.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate and safely harness the therapeutic potential of GSK-3 inhibitors.
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