New options of cancer treatment employing InsP₆

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Cell Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Inositol hexakisphosphate (InsP6) is a highly phosphorylated molecule with known intracellular functions.
• Its pharmacological effects on cancer cell proliferation are debated, despite evidence of growth inhibition at high concentrations.
• The precise mechanisms of extracellular InsP6 action on cancer cells are not fully understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review the uptake mechanisms and intracellular signaling pathways of InsP6 in cancer cells.
• To discuss the bioavailability and plasma concentration of InsP6 in the context of cancer treatment.
• To explore novel findings regarding InsP6 effects on normal, immune, and platelet cells.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and critical discussion of existing studies.
• Analysis of InsP6 uptake mechanisms and intracellular signaling.
• Evaluation of bioavailability and plasma concentration data.

Main Results:

• InsP6 demonstrates anticancer activity, inhibiting cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo.
• Controversial findings exist regarding InsP6 plasma concentration and its pharmacological accessibility.
• Emerging data suggest InsP6 influences normal cells, immune cells, and platelet aggregation.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of InsP6's anticancer mechanisms, including uptake and signaling, is crucial.
• Addressing bioavailability and plasma concentration is essential for developing effective InsP6-based cancer therapies.
• Further mechanistic studies are needed to elucidate the full therapeutic potential of InsP6.