Duloxetine inhibits breast cancer progression by suppressing AKT signaling and inducing Bax/Bcl-2-mediated apoptosis
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View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Duloxetine, an antidepressant, shows significant anti-cancer effects against breast cancer cells and tumors. It works by inhibiting key signaling pathways and promoting cancer cell death, suggesting its potential as an adjunct therapy.
Area Of Science
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background
- Depressive symptoms are linked to breast cancer progression.
- The therapeutic potential of antidepressants in breast cancer treatment requires systematic exploration.
Purpose Of The Study
- To systematically evaluate the anti-tumor efficacy of six antidepressants in breast cancer cells.
- To investigate the mechanisms underlying duloxetine's anti-cancer effects.
Main Methods
- In vitro cytotoxicity assays using 4T1 and MCF-7 breast cancer cell lines.
- In vivo studies in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice.
- Western blot analysis to assess signaling pathways (AKT, mTOR, autophagy markers, apoptosis markers).
Main Results
- Duloxetine demonstrated potent cytotoxicity against both cell lines.
- In vivo, duloxetine suppressed tumor growth, reduced proliferation (Ki-67), and increased cell adhesion (E-cadherin).
- Duloxetine inhibited AKT/mTOR signaling, promoted autophagy, and induced apoptosis via Bax/Bcl-2 modulation.
Conclusions
- Duloxetine exhibits significant anti-breast cancer activity through AKT/mTOR inhibition and apoptosis.
- Duloxetine holds potential for therapeutic repurposing as an adjunct treatment for breast cancer, especially in patients with depression.
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