Anticancer activity of metformin: a systematic review of the literature

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Metformin exhibits confirmed anticancer activity in various cancer types, both in laboratory studies (in vitro) and living organisms (in vivo).
• The precise molecular mechanisms underlying metformin's anti-cancer effects remain incompletely elucidated.
• This systematic review focuses on elucidating the potential anticancer mechanisms of metformin.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and discuss the proposed anticancer mechanisms of metformin.
• To consolidate current understanding of how metformin exerts its anti-cancer effects.
• To identify key molecular pathways involved in metformin's antineoplastic action.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was performed across major scientific databases, including Medline and EMBASE.
• Articles were screened based on titles and abstracts to identify relevant research.
• A total of 12 research articles were selected for inclusion in this review.

Main Results:

• The review identified 12 studies detailing various antiproliferative mechanisms attributed to metformin.
• These mechanisms collectively contribute to metformin's potential antineoplastic effects.
• The findings underscore the complexity of metformin's action in cancer treatment.

Conclusions:

• Metformin demonstrates significant potential as an anticancer agent through multiple mechanisms.
• The study highlights AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) as a crucial molecular target for metformin's anticancer activity.
• Targeting AMPK may represent a promising therapeutic strategy in cancer treatment.