Anticancer role of flubendazole: Effects and molecular mechanisms (Review)

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Pharmacology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Flubendazole is an anthelmintic drug with a proven safety record.
• Recent studies indicate its potential as an anticancer agent across various cancer types.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the molecular mechanisms of flubendazole's anticancer activity.
• To highlight key molecules and regulatory pathways involved in its anti-cancer effects.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of preclinical and clinical studies on flubendazole's anticancer properties.
• Analysis of molecular pathways targeted by flubendazole, including microtubule dynamics, cell cycle, apoptosis, and angiogenesis.

Main Results:

• Flubendazole exhibits multifaceted anticancer effects, including inhibition of proliferation, disruption of microtubule dynamics, cell cycle regulation, autophagy, apoptosis, and suppression of cancer stem cells.
• It also promotes ferroptosis and inhibits angiogenesis, contributing to its broad-spectrum efficacy.

Conclusions:

• Flubendazole presents a promising therapeutic candidate for various cancers due to its diverse molecular actions.
• Further research is crucial to identify new sensitive cancer types, optimize its use, explore drug combinations, and improve delivery methods.