FXR agonists for colorectal and liver cancers, as a stand-alone or in combination therapy

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) is recognized as a tumor suppressor in colorectal and liver cancers.
• The interplay between FXR, bile acids (BAs), and gut microbiota influences cancer risk.
• FXR agonists are being investigated as potential therapeutic agents for these cancers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the efficacy of FXR agonists, alone and in combination, for treating colorectal and liver cancers.
• To explore combination therapy strategies for enhancing treatment outcomes and minimizing adverse effects.
• To provide a theoretical foundation for the clinical use of novel FXR-targeting therapies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on studies of FXR agonists in colorectal and liver cancer models.
• Analysis of preclinical and clinical data on FXR agonist monotherapy and combination therapies.
• Synthesis of information regarding the mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential.

Main Results:

• FXR agonists demonstrate potential in combating colorectal and liver cancers.
• Monotherapy with FXR agonists may yield suboptimal results due to complex disease pathogenesis.
• Combination therapies involving FXR agonists are gaining attention for improved efficacy and reduced side effects.

Conclusions:

• Multimodal treatment approaches, particularly combination therapies with FXR agonists, are crucial for effective management of colorectal and liver cancers.
• Further research into novel FXR agonists and their synergistic combinations is warranted for clinical application.
• This review consolidates current knowledge to guide future therapeutic strategies targeting FXR in cancer treatment.