Strategies for the development of selenium-based anticancer drugs

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Experimental models suggest selenium (Se) compounds possess anticancer activity.
• Clinical studies and randomized trials have not confirmed Se supplementation efficacy in cancer prevention or treatment.
• Existing Se compounds are not recognized as anticancer drugs, necessitating novel strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the dual role of selenium compounds (antioxidant vs. pro-oxidant) in cancer.
• To investigate the pro-oxidant mechanism of Se compounds against cancer cells, despite their inherent pro-oxidant status.
• To propose a new strategy for developing selective anticancer Se compounds by targeting oxidative stress and angiogenesis.

Main Methods:

• Review of experimental and clinical studies on selenium's anticancer effects.
• Analysis of the dual role of Se compounds as antioxidants and pro-oxidants.
• Proposal for dose adaptation based on individual oxidative stress and angiogenesis markers.

Main Results:

• Se compounds exhibit anticancer effects primarily through their pro-oxidant activity.
• Cancer cell oxidative status varies significantly based on cancer type, stage, and other factors.
• Selenium demonstrates a dual role in angiogenesis, acting as both pro- and anti-angiogenic.

Conclusions:

• Developing new Se compounds requires understanding their pro-oxidant and anti-angiogenic potential.
• Individualized dosing strategies, tailored to oxidative stress and angiogenesis markers, are crucial for effective Se-based cancer therapy.
• The goal is to normalize these markers in cancer patients, enhancing selectivity towards cancer cells.