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Colchicine as an anti-inflammatory agent improving cancer prognosis: A therapeutic repurposing perspective

Sigal Matza Porges1, Oded Shamriz2, Shlomo Z Ben-Sasson3

  • 1Department of Human Genetics, Institute for Medical Research the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel; Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Jerusalem Multidisciplinary College, Jerusalem, Israel.

Seminars in Oncology
|November 22, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Colchicine, an anti-inflammatory drug, shows promise in cancer therapy by targeting key cancer pathways and reducing treatment side effects. This perspective explores its potential in oncology.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Inflammation

Background:

  • Colchicine is an established anti-inflammatory medication with a long history of use.
  • Cancer biology involves complex pathways including inflammation, angiogenesis, and autophagy.
  • Treatment-related comorbidities, such as cardiovascular disease, are significant challenges in cancer care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight colchicine as a potential therapeutic agent in oncology.
  • To synthesize evidence on colchicine's mechanisms relevant to cancer biology.
  • To discuss colchicine's role in mitigating cancer treatment side effects.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and evidence synthesis.
  • Analysis of preclinical and clinical data on colchicine.
  • Exploration of colchicine's molecular targets and pathways.

Main Results:

  • Colchicine targets central cancer pathways: chronic inflammation, angiogenesis, cytoskeletal remodeling, and autophagy.
  • Evidence suggests colchicine can mitigate treatment-related comorbidities, including cardiovascular disease.
  • The drug's anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties are supported by existing research.

Conclusions:

  • Colchicine presents a promising, accessible therapeutic option for oncological applications.
  • Further investigation into colchicine's efficacy and safety in cancer treatment is warranted.
  • Repurposing colchicine may offer a novel strategy for comprehensive cancer management.
Keywords:
ColchicineInflammationMalignancy

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