Preclinical and clinical studies into the bioactivity of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) for oncotherapy

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Oncology
• Immunology

Background:

• Naltrexone (NTX) is a non-specific opioid antagonist used for opioid use disorder, alcoholism, obesity, and pain.
• Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) demonstrates significant inhibition of cancer cell DNA synthesis and viability.
• LDN also plays a role in immune modulation against tumor invasion and toxicity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize current research on low-dose naltrexone (LDN) as a potential cancer therapy.
• To highlight the proposed mechanisms of action for LDN in oncotherapy.
• To discuss the prospective clinical applications of LDN in cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing scientific literature on low-dose naltrexone and cancer.
• Analysis of studies investigating LDN's effects on cancer cell functions.
• Examination of research on LDN's role in immune system modulation relevant to cancer.

Main Results:

• Low-dose naltrexone inhibits cancer cell proliferation and viability.
• LDN influences immune responses, potentially aiding in combating tumor invasion.
• Evidence suggests LDN has a role in managing chemical toxicity.

Conclusions:

• Low-dose naltrexone exhibits potential as an anticancer agent.
• Further basic research is warranted to elucidate LDN's anticancer mechanisms.
• Prospective clinical applications of LDN in oncotherapy require continued investigation.