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Targeting cancer-related inflammation with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: Perspectives in pharmacogenomics
Hongjin Lai1,2, Yi Liu1,2, Juan Wu3
1Institute of Thoracic Oncology and Department of Thoracic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China.
Abstract:
Inflammatory processes are essential for innate immunity and contribute to carcinogenesis in various malignancies, such as colorectal cancer, esophageal cancer and lung cancer. Pharmacotherapies targeting inflammation have the potential to reduce the risk of carcinogenesis and improve therapeutic efficacy of existing anti-cancer treatment. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), comprising a variety of structurally different chemicals that can inhibit cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes and other COX-independent pathways, are originally used to treat inflammatory diseases, but their preventive and therapeutic potential for cancers have also attracted researchers' attention. Pharmacogenomic variability, including distinct genetic characteristics among different patients, can significantly affect pharmacokinetics and effectiveness of NSAIDs, which might determine the preventive or therapeutic success for cancer patients. Hence, a more comprehensive understanding in pharmacogenomic characteristics of NSAIDs and cancer-related inflammation would provide new insights into this appealing strategy. In this review, the up-to-date advances in clinical and experimental researches targeting cancer-related inflammation with NSAIDs are presented, and the potential of pharmacogenomics are discussed as well.
Insights
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) show promise in preventing and treating cancer by targeting inflammation. Understanding pharmacogenomic variability is key to optimizing NSAID effectiveness for cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Immunology
Background:
- Inflammation plays a crucial role in innate immunity and contributes to the development of various cancers, including colorectal, esophageal, and lung cancer.
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and are being investigated for their potential in cancer prevention and treatment.
- Genetic variations among patients (pharmacogenomics) can influence how individuals respond to NSAIDs, impacting their effectiveness and safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current clinical and experimental research on using NSAIDs to target cancer-related inflammation.
- To discuss the role and potential of pharmacogenomics in enhancing NSAID-based cancer therapies.
- To provide insights into the personalized application of NSAIDs for cancer treatment and prevention.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of clinical and experimental studies.
- Analysis of pharmacogenomic data related to NSAID efficacy in cancer.
- Synthesis of current understanding of NSAIDs, inflammation, and cancer.
Main Results:
- NSAIDs demonstrate potential in reducing cancer risk and improving the efficacy of existing anti-cancer treatments.
- Pharmacogenomic variability significantly affects NSAID pharmacokinetics and therapeutic outcomes in cancer patients.
- Targeting cancer-related inflammation with NSAIDs presents a promising strategy, but requires personalized approaches.
Conclusions:
- NSAIDs hold significant promise for cancer chemoprevention and therapy by modulating inflammation.
- Pharmacogenomic insights are essential for tailoring NSAID treatments to individual cancer patients for optimal results.
- Further research into pharmacogenomics will refine the use of NSAIDs in oncology, improving patient outcomes.
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