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Metformin Inhibit Cervical Cancer Migration by Suppressing the FAK/Akt Signaling Pathway

Henna Hakimee1, Pilaiwanwadee Hutamekalin2, Supita Tanasawet3

  • 1Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Science, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, Thailand.

Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention : APJCP
|December 25, 2019
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Metformin significantly inhibits cervical cancer cell migration by reducing cell structures like filopodia and lamellipodia. This antimetastatic effect is mediated by suppressing key proteins involved in cell movement.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Metformin, an established antidiabetic medication, exhibits potential anti-cancer properties.
  • The specific impact of metformin on cancer cell migration, particularly in cervical cancer, requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effect of metformin on the migration of cervical cancer cells.
  • To explore the underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for metformin's influence on cell migration.

Main Methods:

  • Cervical cancer cell lines were treated with metformin.
  • Immunocytochemistry and Western blotting assays were employed to analyze protein expression and cellular structures.

Main Results:

  • Metformin treatment markedly reduced the migratory capacity of cervical cancer cells.
  • Filopodia and lamellipodia formation were significantly diminished post-metformin exposure.
  • Metformin suppressed key regulatory proteins including focal adhesion kinase (FAK), Akt, Rac1, and RhoA.

Conclusions:

  • Metformin demonstrates antimigratory effects in cervical cancer by inhibiting filopodia and lamellipodia formation.
  • This inhibition occurs through the downregulation of FAK, Akt, Rac1, and RhoA signaling pathways.
  • Metformin presents a potential therapeutic candidate for managing cervical cancer metastasis.
Keywords:
HeLaLamellipodiaRac1RhoAfilopodia

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