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An Updated Review of Disulfiram: Molecular Targets and Strategies for Cancer Treatment

Qingzhu Yang1, Yao Yao1, Kai Li1

  • 1School of Life Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, China.

Current Pharmaceutical Design
|August 18, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Repurposing the antialcoholism drug Disulfiram (DSF) shows promise for cancer treatment. This review explores DSF

Area of Science:

  • Oncology and Pharmacology

Background:

  • Repurposing approved drugs like Disulfiram (DSF) offers a cost-effective and time-efficient approach to cancer therapy.
  • DSF, an antialcoholism medication approved by the FDA over 60 years ago, exhibits significant potential in treating various human cancers.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the history and molecular mechanisms of Disulfiram (DSF) in anticancer therapy.
  • To explore DSF delivery strategies and summarize clinical trial data for cancer treatment.
  • To propose strategies for optimizing DSF utilization in oncology.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of Disulfiram's (DSF) history, anticancer mechanisms, and clinical applications.
  • Analysis of proposed molecular targets including the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS), cancer stemness, metastasis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS).
  • Summary of completed and ongoing clinical trials involving DSF in cancer patients.

Main Results:

  • Disulfiram (DSF) demonstrates anticancer potential through multiple mechanisms, including UPS inhibition and modulation of ROS.
  • Evidence suggests DSF can target cancer stemness and inhibit metastasis.
  • Clinical trials are evaluating DSF's efficacy and safety across various cancer types.

Conclusions:

  • Disulfiram (DSF) is a promising repurposed drug for cancer therapy with a well-established safety profile.
  • Further research and clinical trials are essential to optimize DSF delivery and treatment strategies for enhanced anticancer efficacy.
  • DSF holds potential for integration into diverse cancer treatment regimens.
Keywords:
Disulfiramanticancer agentscancerclinical trialsdrug deliverymolecular targets.

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