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Retinoids as anti-cancer agents and their mechanisms of action

Ying Jin1, Soek Sin Teh2, Harrison Lik Nang Lau2

  • 1School of Biosciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University (Lakeside Campus) Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia.

American Journal of Cancer Research
|April 12, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Retinoids, vitamin A derivatives, show significant anti-cancer effects, especially in combination with chemotherapy. Further clinical studies are recommended for these promising cancer treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Retinoids (vitamin A) possess known anti-cancer properties due to receptor binding and gene regulation.
  • Recent comprehensive reviews on retinoid anti-cancer potential are limited.
  • Understanding retinoid mechanisms and synergistic effects is crucial for cancer therapy development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the anti-cancer effects of retinoids and their synergistic potential with other drugs.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms of action of retinoids across various cancer types.
  • To highlight recent findings (past five years) and identify future research directions.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies published within the last five years.
  • Focus on retinoids' effects in breast cancer, melanoma, and colorectal cancer.
  • Analysis of retinoid mechanisms, including the RAR/RXR signaling pathway.

Main Results:

  • Synthetic retinoids demonstrate superior selectivity, efficacy, and reduced toxicity compared to endogenous forms.
  • Combination therapy of endogenous retinoids with chemotherapy enhances anti-cancer outcomes.
  • The RAR/RXR signaling pathway is a primary mechanism of retinoid action.

Conclusions:

  • Retinoids are potent anti-cancer agents with significant therapeutic potential.
  • Combination therapy with chemotherapy warrants further investigation.
  • Increased clinical studies are needed to fully realize the anti-cancer benefits of retinoids.
Keywords:
All-trans-retinoic acidRAR/RXR signaling pathwaycombination treatmentvitamin A

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