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Intramucosal Inoculation of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells in Mice for Tumor Immune Profiling and Treatment Response Assessment
Published on: April 22, 2019
Imipramine Suppresses Tumor Growth and Induces Apoptosis in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Targeting Multiple
Li-Cho Hsu1, Ching Ni Lin2, Fei-Ting Hsu3
1Department of Medicine, National Yang-Ming Chiao-Tung University Hospital, Yilan, Taiwan, R.O.C.
Background/Aim:
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has limited treatment options. This study investigated imipramine, a tricyclic antidepressant, as a potential therapy for OSCC using a SAS-bearing xenograft animal model.
Materials And Methods:
The SAS-bearing xenograft model evaluated imipramine's impact on tumor growth. The control group received no treatment, while the imipramine-treated group received regular doses. Tumor growth, confirmed by imaging, and histological analysis assessed size and weight. Imipramine's effects on apoptosis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and transcription factors (AKT, ERK, STAT3) were analyzed.
Results:
Imipramine significantly suppressed tumor growth within 6 days of treatment, with sustained activity. Computer tomography (CT) scans and histology confirmed reduced size and weight by imipramine. Imipramine induced apoptosis via caspase-dependent/-independent pathways, inhibited EMT, and down-regulated phosphorylated AKT, ERK, and STAT3.
Conclusion:
Imipramine shows promise as an effective OSCC therapy, inhibiting tumor growth, inducing apoptosis, and inhibiting EMT. Its impact on transcription factors and modulation of the AKT/ERK/STAT3 pathway suggest a multifaceted approach.
Insights
Imipramine, a tricyclic antidepressant, effectively inhibited oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tumor growth in a xenograft model. This study highlights imipramine
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) presents limited therapeutic avenues.
- Investigating novel therapeutic agents is crucial for improving OSCC patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate imipramine, a tricyclic antidepressant, as a potential treatment for OSCC.
- To assess imipramine's efficacy in a SAS-bearing xenograft animal model.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a SAS-bearing xenograft model to assess imipramine's anti-tumor effects.
- Analyzed tumor growth, apoptosis, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and key transcription factors (AKT, ERK, STAT3).
Main Results:
- Imipramine significantly suppressed OSCC tumor growth within six days.
- Confirmed reduced tumor size and weight via CT scans and histology.
- Demonstrated imipramine's induction of apoptosis and inhibition of EMT and the AKT/ERK/STAT3 pathway.
Conclusions:
- Imipramine exhibits significant potential as an effective therapy for OSCC.
- The drug's multifaceted action includes tumor growth inhibition, apoptosis induction, and EMT suppression.
- Modulation of the AKT/ERK/STAT3 pathway by imipramine warrants further investigation for OSCC treatment.
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