Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 7, 2026

Studying Triple Negative Breast Cancer Using Orthotopic Breast Cancer Model
Published on: March 20, 2020
Propranolol and breast cancer-a work in progress
Pan Pantziarka1,2, Brad A Bryan3, Sergio Crispino1
1Anticancer Fund, Brussels, 1853 Strombeek-Bever, Belgium.
Abstract:
The non-selective beta-blocker propranolol is a leading candidate for repurposing as a novel anti-cancer agent. Emerging evidence, including human data, suggests that there are multiple mechanisms of action particularly relevant to breast cancer. This editorial reviews a number of recent studies that show it has anti-metastatic activity that warrants clinical investigation, including investigation as a potential perioperative therapy in breast cancer.
Insights
The common drug propranolol shows promise as an anti-cancer treatment, especially for breast cancer. Its ability to stop cancer spread (metastasis) suggests potential use around surgery.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Translational Medicine
Background:
- Propranolol, a non-selective beta-blocker, is being investigated for novel anti-cancer applications.
- Emerging evidence, including human data, highlights its potential mechanisms of action in breast cancer.
Discussion:
- Recent studies indicate propranolol possesses anti-metastatic properties.
- These findings support further clinical investigation into propranolol's efficacy against cancer spread.
Key Insights:
- Propranolol demonstrates anti-metastatic activity relevant to breast cancer.
- Multiple mechanisms of action are suggested by current research.
Outlook:
- Clinical investigation of propranolol as a perioperative therapy for breast cancer is warranted.
- Further research may establish propranolol as a repurposed anti-cancer agent.
Related Concept Videos
mTOR Signaling and Cancer Progression
The mTOR pathway or the...
Tumor Progression
Colon cancer is one of the best-documented examples of tumor progression. Early mutation in the APC gene in colon cells causes a small growth on the colon wall called a polyp. With time, this polyp grows into a benign, pre-cancerous tumor. Further...
Cancer
What is Cancer?
Although people have known about cancer for centuries, it was only in 1761 that Giovanni Morgagni of Padua performed a detailed autopsy of...
Cancer Vaccines
Cancer vaccines come in two categories: preventive (prophylactic) and treatment (active). Preventive vaccines, such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, protect against viruses that cause certain...

