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Mitochondrial Inhibition: a Treatment Strategy in Cancer?

  • Evolving Therapies (RM Bukowski, Section Editor)
  • Published:
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Mitochondria have a major impact on virtually all processes linked to oncogenesis. Thus, mitochondrial metabolism inhibition has emerged as a promising anticancer strategy. In this review, we discuss the anticancer potential of mitochondrial inhibitors, with particular focus on metformin, in the context of more effective, targeted therapeutic modalities, and diagnostic strategies for cancer patients.

Recent Findings

Metformin has gained interest as an antitumor agent. However, promising results have not been translated into remarkable advances in the clinical practice. Recent findings emphasize the need of providing a metabolic context in which mitochondrial inhibitors may elicit its anticancerous effects. In addition, mitochondria are critical regulators in orchestrating immune responses. Thus, the immunomodulatory effect of mitochondrial inhibitors should also be taken into account to optimize its clinical use.

Summary

Targeting mitochondrial metabolic network represents a promising therapeutic strategy in cancer. However, there is a need to define the metabolic context in which mitochondrial inhibitors are more effective, as well as how the cross-talk between many immunological functions and mitochondrial functionality may be exploited for a therapeutic benefit in cancer patients.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Breast Cancer Clinical Research Unit–Clinical Research Program, CNIO-Spanish National Cancer Research Center, Melchor Fernandez Almagro, 3, 28029, Madrid, Spain

    Maria J. Bueno, Jose L. Ruiz-Sepulveda & Miguel Quintela-Fandino

  2. Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario de Fuenlabrada, Fuenlabrada, Madrid, Spain

    Miguel Quintela-Fandino

  3. Medical Oncology, Hospital Universitario Quiron, Pozuelo de Alarcon, Madrid, Spain

    Miguel Quintela-Fandino

  4. Department of Medicine, Universidad Autonoma de Madrid, Madrid, Spain

    Miguel Quintela-Fandino

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  1. Maria J. Bueno
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Correspondence to Miguel Quintela-Fandino.

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Bueno, M.J., Ruiz-Sepulveda, J.L. & Quintela-Fandino, M. Mitochondrial Inhibition: a Treatment Strategy in Cancer?. Curr Oncol Rep 23, 49 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11912-021-01033-x

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