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Werida RH, Elshafiey RA, Ghoneim A, Elzawawy S, Mostafa TM. Role of alpha-lipoic acid in counteracting paclitaxel- and doxorubicin-induced toxicities: a randomized controlled trial in breast cancer patients. Support Care Cancer 2022; 30:7281-7292. [PMID: 35596774 PMCID: PMC9385783 DOI: 10.1007/s00520-022-07124-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Paclitaxel and doxorubicin are associated with neurotoxicity and cardiotoxicity respectively. This study aimed at investigating the role of alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) in counteracting paclitaxel-induced neuropathy and doxorubicin-associated cardiotoxicity in women with breast cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS This randomized double-blind placebo-controlled prospective study included 64 patients with breast cancer who were randomized into control group (n = 32) which received 4 cycles of doxorubicin plus cyclophosphamide (every 21 days) followed by weekly doses of paclitaxel for 12 weeks plus placebo tablets once daily and ALA group (n = 32) which received the same chemotherapeutic regimen plus ALA 600 once daily for 6 months. Patients were assessed by National Cancer Institute Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (NCI-CTCAE version 4.0) for grading of neuropathy and by 12-item neurotoxicity questionnaire (Ntx-12). The assessment included also echocardiography and evaluation of serum levels of brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), malondialdehyde (MDA), and neurotensin (NT). Data were analyzed by paired and unpaired t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, and chi-square test. RESULTS As compared to placebo, ALA provoked significant improvement in NCI-CTCAE neuropathy grading and Ntx-12 score after the end of 9th and 12th weeks of paclitaxel intake (p = 0.039, p = 0.039, p = 0.03, p = 0.004, respectively). At the end of the chemotherapy cycles, ALA resulted in significant decline in serum levels of BNP, TNF-α, MDA, and neurotensin (p < 0.05) as compared to baseline data and placebo. CONCLUSION Alpha-lipoic acid may represent a promising adjuvant therapy to attenuate paclitaxel-associated neuropathy and doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in women with breast cancer. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03908528.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rehab H Werida
- Clinical Pharmacy & Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt.
| | - Reham A Elshafiey
- Clinical Pharmacy & Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Asser Ghoneim
- Pharmacology & Toxicology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Damanhour University, Damanhour, Egypt
| | - Sherif Elzawawy
- Clinical Oncology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Tarek M Mostafa
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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2
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Olaku O, Conley BA, Ivy SP, McShane LM, Staudt LM, King SM, Sansevere M, Kim B, White JD. Survey of Lifestyle, Past Medical History and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use Among Adult Patients Participating in the National Cancer Institute's Exceptional Responders Initiative. Transl Oncol 2022; 25:101484. [PMID: 35944413 PMCID: PMC9365974 DOI: 10.1016/j.tranon.2022.101484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Revised: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Fifty percent of exceptional responders changed diet after cancer diagnosis. Forty percent of exceptional responders changed level of physical activity after cancer diagnosis Sixty percent of subjects reported using complementary and alternative approaches during exceptional response period Complementary and alternative medicine users generally used multiple interventions
Introduction The Exceptional Responders Initiative (ERI) at the National Cancer Institute attempts to correlate unusually good outcomes in patients with cancer with genetic targets in tumors and the therapies the patients received. It is not known if other factors might contribute to exceptional responses or outcomes. We explored aspects of the medical history, lifestyle changes, complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use and communication between health care practitioners and patients who experienced an exceptional response following cancer treatment. Methods All subjects whose case was submitted to the ERI were eligible to participate in the survey. A 121-question survey questionnaire was developed to assess aspects of the subject's past medical history, lifestyle (e.g., diet, exercise, spirituality) and use of CAM. Results Thirty subjects completed and returned the questionnaire from approximately 88 patients invited to participate (approximate response rate = 34%). Approximately 68% were female and 32% were male. Fifty percent of subjects changed their diet after their cancer diagnosis. Eighteen patients (60%) reported using a CAM therapy (not including oral vitamins/minerals or spiritual practices) during their Exceptional Response (ER). Conclusion Multiple factors, including features of the tumor itself, the patient, or the environment, could affect tumor response or patient survival, either solely or in combination with the treatments received. Many patients use other medications, change their diet or physical activity or use CAM interventions after their cancer diagnosis. Investigators attempting to understand the exceptional response phenomenon should acquire rich data sets of their subjects that include information about these factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oluwadamilola Olaku
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, NIH, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Barbara A Conley
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, NIH, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - S Percy Ivy
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, NIH, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Lisa M McShane
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, NIH, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Louis M Staudt
- Center for Cancer Genomics, National Cancer Institute, NIH, 31 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Sophie M King
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, NIH, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Megan Sansevere
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, NIH, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Benjamin Kim
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, NIH, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
| | - Jeffrey D White
- Division of Cancer Treatment and Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, NIH, 9609 Medical Center Drive, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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Reduction in Glomerular and Renal Tubular Damage in Kidneys of Diabetic Rats Supplemented with Alpha-Lipoic Acid. ACTA VET-BEOGRAD 2022. [DOI: 10.2478/acve-2022-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Chronic hyperglycemia caused by diabetes results in systemic damage to the body, and the kidney ends up being the target of tissue damage. The use of antioxidants such as alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) has been shown to improve clinical and biochemical parameters in diabetic patients as they help in the prevention of oxidative stress. The present study aimed to undertake a comparative evaluation of the renal morphology of normal and diabetes-induced Wistar rats supplemented with ALA. The experiment had 4 experimental groups (n=7): a control group and a diabetic group that were fed commercial food; an alpha-lipoic group and an alpha-lipoic diabetic group that received the ALA supplement. Diabetes was induced with a single intraperitoneal injection of alloxane monohydrate administered after fasting. After 60 days of the experiment, the kidneys were excised to study the histomorphometric and stereological parameters of the glomeruli and renal tubules and the immunohistochemical parameters with a podocyte count. In the evaluation, the ALA promoted improvement in all of the relevant parameters of the glomerular areas and attenuation of tubular lesions of diabetic animals (p<0.001). Supplementation with ALA also showed beneficial effects in diabetic animals, such as reducing hyperglycemia and the damage promoted by oxidative stress alongside promoting a protective effect on the renal parenchyma. The reduction of glomerular and tubular damage delayed the advance of diabetic nephropathy and its complications, preventing renal failure in diabetic groups.
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4
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Liu WM, Dalgleish AG. Naltrexone at low doses (LDN) and its relevance to cancer therapy. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2022; 22:269-274. [PMID: 35107043 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2022.2037426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION : Naltrexone was designed to inhibit opioid receptors without activating them, and hence used to block the stimulatory effects of morphine and heroin. It was noted that in certain patients being treated with naltrexone for an opioid addiction many reported significant secondary benefit when being weaned off naltrexone. This group of patients had chronic inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, and reported improvements whilst using the lower dosages of naltrexone. There have also been recent anecdotal reports of cancer resolution following the use of low doses of naltrexone (LDN). However, the mechanism of action is unclear. AREAS COVERED We review three mechanisms through which LDN can influence cancer progression; namely, a) antagonism of receptors to which LDN binds, which include toll-like receptors 7-9 that lead to IL-6 suppression b) modulation of immune function in patients; and c) direct inhibition of signalling pathways involved in cancer cell control, including the priming of pro-apoptotic pathways. EXPERT OPINION Considering the increase in number of anecdotal reports of activity, there will likely be a bigger drive towards using LDN in the oncological setting. These reports support clinical trials of LDN in cancer, especially when given in combination with certain chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wai M Liu
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, 2nd Floor, Jenner Wing, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Angus G Dalgleish
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, 2nd Floor, Jenner Wing, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK
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5
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Qu N, Meng Y, Handley MK, Wang C, Shan F. Preclinical and clinical studies into the bioactivity of low-dose naltrexone (LDN) for oncotherapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2021; 96:107714. [PMID: 33989971 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2021.107714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2021] [Revised: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Naltrexone (NTX) is a nonspecific opioid antagonist that exerts pharmacological effects on the opioid axis by blocking opioid receptors distributed in cytoplastic and nuclear regions. NTX has been used in opioid use disorder (OUD), immune-associated diseases, alcoholism, obesity, and chronic pain for decades. However, low-dose naltrexone (LDN) also exhibits remarkable inhibition of DNA synthesis, viability, and other functions in numerous cancers and is involved in immune remodeling against tumor invasion and chemical toxicity. The potential anticancer activity of LDN is a focus of basic research. Herein, we summarize the associated studies on LDN oncotherapy to highlight the potential mechanisms and prospective clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Qu
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Institute and Hospital, No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Yiming Meng
- Central Laboratory, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Institute and Hospital, No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Mike K Handley
- Cytocom, Inc., 2537 Research Blvd. Suite 201, FortCollins, CO 80526, USA
| | - Chunyan Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Cancer Hospital of China Medical University, Liaoning Cancer Institute and Hospital, No. 44, Xiaoheyan Road, Shenyang 110042, Liaoning Province, China.
| | - Fengping Shan
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Science, China Medical University, No. 77, Puhe Road, Shenyang 110122, China.
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6
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Naltrexone's Impact on Cancer Progression and Mortality: A Systematic Review of Studies in Humans, Animal Models, and Cell Cultures. Adv Ther 2021; 38:904-924. [PMID: 33337537 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01591-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Naltrexone (NTX) is an opioid antagonist traditionally used as a treatment for alcohol and opioid use disorders, but various studies have documented its involvement in cancer progression, exploring possible anticancer potential, when administered at high doses or as low dose naltrexone (LDN). Herein we present a systematic review of cancer-related outcomes from case reports, clinical trials, and retrospective and prospective studies conducted using cell cultures, animal models, and human subjects receiving NTX/LDN. METHODS A systematic search of NTX in cancer therapy was conducted. Outcomes including tumor size and number, latency to tumor development, survival duration, progression of disease, and scan results were assessed in clinical and animal studies, and cell number was used as the outcome measure of culture studies. RESULTS Several case reports demonstrate notable survival durations and metastatic resolutions in patients with late stage cancer when administered an average LDN dose of 3-5 mg/day. Animal and cell culture studies suggest an overarching principle of NTX involvement in cancer pharmacophysiology, suggesting that high doses and continuous administration can foster cancer progression, whereas low doses and intermittent treatment may hinder cell proliferation, impede tumorigenesis, and have potential anticancer efficacy. CONCLUSION This review emphasizes the value of potential future research on NTX in cancer therapy, and warrants need for a better understanding of underlying mechanisms. Future controlled studies with more robust sample sizes, particularly in humans, are needed to fully elucidate its potential in cancer therapy.
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7
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Couto RD, Fernandes BJD. Low Doses Naltrexone: The Potential Benefit Effects for its Use in Patients with Cancer. Curr Drug Res Rev 2021; 13:86-89. [PMID: 33504322 DOI: 10.2174/2589977513666210127094222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Naltrexone (NTX) is an opioid antagonist that inhibits cell proliferation in vivo when administered in low doses. Naltrexone in low doses are able to reduce tumor growth by interfering with cell signalling as well as by modifying the immune system. It acts as an opioid growth factor receptor (OGFr) antagonist and the OGF-OGFr axis is an inhibitory biological pathway present in human cancer cells and tissues, being a target for treatment with naltrexone low-dose (LDN). Clinical trials have proposed a unique mechanism(s) allowing LDN to affect tumors. LDN shows promising results for people with primary cancer of the bladder, breast, liver, lung, lymph nodes, colon and rectum. This short review provides further evidence to support the role of LDN as an anticancer agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo David Couto
- Clinical Biochemistry Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Bahia/UFBA, Salvador, Bahia. Brazil
| | - Bruno Jose Dumêt Fernandes
- Clinical Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Clinical and Toxicological Analysis, Faculty of Pharmacy, Federal University of Bahia/UFBA, Salvador, Bahia. Brazil
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8
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Gogoi P, Dutta A, Ramteke A, Maji TK. Preparation, characterization and cytotoxic applications of curcumin‐(±)
α‐lipoic
acid coloaded phosphorylated chitosan nanoparticles in
MDA MB
231 breast cancer cell line. POLYM ADVAN TECHNOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/pat.5009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Plabita Gogoi
- Department of Chemical Sciences Tezpur University Tezpur India
| | - Anindita Dutta
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Tezpur University Tezpur India
| | - Anand Ramteke
- Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Tezpur University Tezpur India
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9
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Wang R, Zhang Y, Shan F. Interaction of opioid growth factor (OGF) and opioid antagonist and their significance in cancer therapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2019; 75:105785. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2019.105785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2019] [Revised: 07/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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10
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Dorokhov YL, Sheshukova EV, Bialik TE, Komarova TV. Human Endogenous Formaldehyde as an Anticancer Metabolite: Its Oxidation Downregulation May Be a Means of Improving Therapy. Bioessays 2018; 40:e1800136. [PMID: 30370669 DOI: 10.1002/bies.201800136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Revised: 09/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Malignant cells are characterized by an increased content of endogenous formaldehyde formed as a by-product of biosynthetic processes. Accumulation of formaldehyde in cancer cells is combined with activation of the processes of cellular formaldehyde clearance. These mechanisms include increased ALDH and suppressed ADH5/FDH activity, which oncologists consider poor and favorable prognostic markers, respectively. Here, the sources and regulation of formaldehyde metabolism in cancer cells are reviewed. The authors also analyze the participation of oncoproteins such as fibulins, FGFR1, HER2/neu, FBI-1, and MUC1-C in the control of genes related to formaldehyde metabolism, suggesting the existence of two mutually exclusive processes in cancer cells: 1) production and 2) oxidation and elimination of formaldehyde from the cell. The authors hypothesize that the study of the anticancer properties of disulfiram and alpha lipoic acid - which affect the balance of formaldehyde in the body - may serve as the basis of future anticancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri L Dorokhov
- N.I. Vavilov Institute of General Genetics of RAS, 119991, Moscow, Russia.,A.N. Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Tatiana E Bialik
- N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, 115478, Moscow, Russia
| | - Tatiana V Komarova
- N.I. Vavilov Institute of General Genetics of RAS, 119991, Moscow, Russia.,A.N. Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991, Moscow, Russia
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11
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Block KI, Block PB, Gyllenhaal C. Integrative Treatment for Colorectal Cancer: A Comprehensive Approach. J Altern Complement Med 2018; 24:890-901. [PMID: 30247965 DOI: 10.1089/acm.2018.0125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A comprehensive approach to integrative treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC) patients involves three spheres of intervention: lifestyle, biology, and conventional treatment. Individualization of treatment is emphasized. The lifestyle sphere includes nutritional therapies, biobehavioral strategies with circadian interventions, and physical care modalities. The biology sphere comprises six host factors in the patient's internal biochemical environment or "terrain": inflammation, glycemia, oxidative stress, immune dysregulation, coagulopathy, and stress chemistries. Laboratory testing of these factors guides integrative lifestyle and supplement recommendations. The conventional treatment sphere includes individualized lifestyle recommendations, and supplements or drugs used to enhance tolerability or effectiveness of conventional treatments. Innovative strategies are implemented, including chronomodulated chemotherapy, chemosensitivity testing, and using results of molecular genomic testing to guide nutritional infusions and supplement recommendations. In the lifestyle sphere, substantial evidence from cohort studies supports recommendations for a diet that emphasizes plant and fish proteins, healthful fats in amounts that are tailored to the clinical circumstance of the patient, and carbohydrates based on unrefined whole grains, vegetables and whole fruits. High glycemic diets and refined carbohydrates, especially sugar-sweetened beverages, should be avoided. Biobehavioral strategies include practice of the relaxation response and related approaches. In addition, specific strategies to promote robust circadian organization (CO) are used to combat quality of life concerns and worsened survival that accompany disrupted CO. Physical activity, including aerobic activity and muscle strengthening, is recommended at all disease stages. In the biology sphere, supplements and lifestyle recommendations for inflammation and glycemia are discussed. In the conventional treatment sphere, supplements and innovative and complementary therapies that may remedy treatment toxicities are reviewed. Approaching CRC treatment with a comprehensive, individualized intervention enables safe and beneficial outcomes in this patient population, which can vary widely in individual biology, treatment toxicities, and disease complications. Further research in integrative therapies for CRC patients is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keith I Block
- Block Center for Integrative Cancer Treatment , Skokie, IL
| | - Penny B Block
- Block Center for Integrative Cancer Treatment , Skokie, IL
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12
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Toljan K, Vrooman B. Low-Dose Naltrexone (LDN)-Review of Therapeutic Utilization. Med Sci (Basel) 2018; 6:medsci6040082. [PMID: 30248938 PMCID: PMC6313374 DOI: 10.3390/medsci6040082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2018] [Revised: 09/16/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Naltrexone and naloxone are classical opioid antagonists. In substantially lower than standard doses, they exert different pharmacodynamics. Low-dose naltrexone (LDN), considered in a daily dose of 1 to 5 mg, has been shown to reduce glial inflammatory response by modulating Toll-like receptor 4 signaling in addition to systemically upregulating endogenous opioid signaling by transient opioid-receptor blockade. Clinical reports of LDN have demonstrated possible benefits in diseases such as fibromyalgia, Crohn’s disease, multiple sclerosis, complex-regional pain syndrome, Hailey-Hailey disease, and cancer. In a dosing range at less than 1 μg per day, oral naltrexone or intravenous naloxone potentiate opioid analgesia by acting on filamin A, a scaffolding protein involved in μ-opioid receptor signaling. This dose is termed ultra low-dose naltrexone/naloxone (ULDN). It has been of use in postoperative control of analgesia by reducing the need for the total amount of opioids following surgery, as well as ameliorating certain side-effects of opioid-related treatment. A dosing range between 1 μg and 1 mg comprises very low-dose naltrexone (VLDN), which has primarily been used as an experimental adjunct treatment for boosting tolerability of opioid-weaning methadone taper. In general, all of the low-dose features regarding naltrexone and naloxone have been only recently and still scarcely scientifically evaluated. This review aims to present an overview of the current knowledge on these topics and summarize the key findings published in peer-review sources. The existing potential of LDN, VLDN, and ULDN for various areas of biomedicine has still not been thoroughly and comprehensively addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karlo Toljan
- Department of Pathophysiology, University of Zagreb School of Medicine, Kispaticeva 12, 10 000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| | - Bruce Vrooman
- Section of Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, 1 Medical Center Dr, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
- Department of Anesthesiology, Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth, Hanover, NH 03756, USA.
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Li Z, You Y, Griffin N, Feng J, Shan F. Low-dose naltrexone (LDN): A promising treatment in immune-related diseases and cancer therapy. Int Immunopharmacol 2018; 61:178-184. [DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2018.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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14
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Berkson BM, Calvo Riera F. The Long-Term Survival of a Patient With Stage IV Renal Cell Carcinoma Following an Integrative Treatment Approach Including the Intravenous α-Lipoic Acid/Low-Dose Naltrexone Protocol. Integr Cancer Ther 2017; 17:986-993. [PMID: 29258346 PMCID: PMC6142095 DOI: 10.1177/1534735417747984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
In this case report, we describe the treatment of a 64-year-old male patient
diagnosed with metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) in June of 2008. In spite
of a left nephrectomy and the standard oncological protocols, the patient
developed a solitary left lung metastasis that continued to grow. He was
informed that given his diagnosis and poor response to conventional therapy, any
further treatment would, at best, be palliative. The patient arrived at the
Integrative Medical Center of New Mexico in August of 2010. He was in very poor
health, weak, and cachectic. An integrative program—developed by one of the
authors using intravenous (IV) α-lipoic acid, IV vitamin C, low-dose naltrexone,
and hydroxycitrate, and a healthy life style program—was initiated. From August
2010 to August 2015, the patient’s RCC with left lung metastasis was followed
closely using computed tomography and positron emission tomography/computed
tomography imaging. His most recent positron emission tomography scan
demonstrated no residual increased glucose uptake in his left lung. After only a
few treatments of IV α-lipoic acid and IV vitamin C, his symptoms began to
improve, and the patient regained his baseline weight. His energy and outlook
improved, and he returned to work. The patient had stable disease with
disappearance of the signs and symptoms of stage IV RCC, a full 9 years
following diagnosis, with a gentle integrative program, which is essentially
free of side effects. As of November 2017 the patient feels well and is working
at his full-time job.
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Affiliation(s)
- Burton M Berkson
- 1 Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, USA.,2 The Integrative Medical Center of New Mexico, Las Cruces, NM, USA
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15
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Szulc-Kielbik I, Kielbik M, Klink M. Ferulic acid but not alpha-lipoic acid effectively protects THP-1-derived macrophages from oxidant and pro-inflammatory response to LPS. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol 2017; 39:330-337. [DOI: 10.1080/08923973.2017.1369100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Michal Kielbik
- Institute of Medical Biology, Polish Academy of Sciences, Lodz, Poland
| | - Magdalena Klink
- Faculty of Cosmetology, The Academy of Cosmetics and Health Care, Warsaw, Poland
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16
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Stockdale DP, Titunick MB, Biegler JM, Reed JL, Hartung AM, Wiemer DF, McLaughlin PJ, Neighbors JD. Selective opioid growth factor receptor antagonists based on a stilbene isostere. Bioorg Med Chem 2017; 25:4464-4474. [PMID: 28693915 PMCID: PMC5567982 DOI: 10.1016/j.bmc.2017.06.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2017] [Revised: 06/13/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
As part of an ongoing drug development effort aimed at selective opioid receptor ligands based on the pawhuskin natural products we have synthesized a small set of amide isosteres. These amides were centered on lead compounds which are selective antagonists for the delta and kappa opioid receptors. The amide isomers revealed here show dramatically different activity from the parent stilbene compounds. Three of the isomers synthesized showed antagonist activity for the opioid growth factor (OGF)/opioid growth factor receptor (OGFR) axis which is involved in cellular and organ growth control. This cellular signaling mechanism is targeted by "low-dose" naltrexone therapy which is being tested clinically for multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease, cancer, and wound healing disorders. The compounds described here are the first selective small molecule ligands for the OGF/OGFR system and will serve as important leads and probes for further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- David P Stockdale
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242-1294, United States
| | - Michelle B Titunick
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| | - Jessica M Biegler
- Department of Pharmacology and Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States; Pennsylvania State University Cancer Institute, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| | - Jessie L Reed
- Department of Pharmacology and Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States; Pennsylvania State University Cancer Institute, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| | - Alyssa M Hartung
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242-1294, United States
| | - David F Wiemer
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242-1294, United States
| | - Patricia J McLaughlin
- Department of Neural and Behavioral Sciences, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States; Pennsylvania State University Cancer Institute, Hershey, PA 17033, United States
| | - Jeffrey D Neighbors
- Department of Pharmacology and Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, United States; Pennsylvania State University Cancer Institute, Hershey, PA 17033, United States.
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Cant R, Dalgleish AG, Allen RL. Naltrexone Inhibits IL-6 and TNFα Production in Human Immune Cell Subsets following Stimulation with Ligands for Intracellular Toll-Like Receptors. Front Immunol 2017; 8:809. [PMID: 28744288 PMCID: PMC5504148 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2016] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The opioid antagonist naltrexone hydrochloride has been suggested to be a potential therapy at low dosage for multiple inflammatory conditions and cancers. Little is known about the immune-modulating effects of naltrexone, but an effect on the activity of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) has been reported. We analyzed the effects of naltrexone hydrochloride on IL-6 secretion by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) in vitro following stimulation with ligands for TLR4 and for the intracellular receptors TLR7, TLR8, and TLR9. Naltrexone did not affect cell viability or induce apoptosis of PBMC. Intracellular staining demonstrated that naltrexone inhibited production of IL-6 and TNFα by monocyte and plasmacytoid dendritic cell subsets within the PBMC population following treatment with ligands for TLR7/8 and TLR9, respectively. No effect of cytokine production by PBMC following stimulation of TLR4 was observed. Additionally, naltrexone inhibited IL-6 production in isolated monocytes and B cells after TLR7/8 and TLR9 stimulation, respectively, but no effect on IL-6 production in isolated monocytes after TLR4 stimulation was observed. These findings indicate that naltrexone has the potential to modulate the secretion of inflammatory cytokines in response to intracellular TLR activity, supporting the hypothesis that it may have potential for use as an immunomodulator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Cant
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Angus G Dalgleish
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel L Allen
- Institute for Infection and Immunity, St George's University of London, London, United Kingdom
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18
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El-Sayed ESM, Mansour AM, El-Sawy WS. Alpha lipoic acid prevents doxorubicin-induced nephrotoxicity by mitigation of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis in rats. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 2017; 31. [DOI: 10.1002/jbt.21940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2017] [Revised: 05/16/2017] [Accepted: 05/20/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- El-Sayed M. El-Sayed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy; Al-Azhar University; Cairo Egypt
| | - Ahmed M. Mansour
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy; Al-Azhar University; Cairo Egypt
| | - Waleed S. El-Sawy
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy; Al-Azhar University; Assiut Egypt
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19
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Lissoni P, Messina G, Lissoni A, Franco R. The psychoneuroendocrine-immunotherapy of cancer: Historical evolution and clinical results. JOURNAL OF RESEARCH IN MEDICAL SCIENCES 2017; 22:45. [PMID: 28567065 PMCID: PMC5426095 DOI: 10.4103/jrms.jrms_255_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 11/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The prognosis of the neoplastic diseases depends not only on the biogenetic characteristics of cancer cells but also on the immunological response of patients, which may influence the biological features of cancer cells themselves as well as the angiogenic processes. Moreover, the immune system in vivo is under a physiological psychoneuroendocrine (PNE) regulation, mainly mediated by the brain opioid system and the pineal gland. In more detail, the anticancer immunity is stimulated by the pineal hormone melatonin (MLT) and inhibited by the opioid system, namely, through a mu-opioid receptor. Several alterations involving the pineal endocrine function and the opioid system have been described in cancer patients, which could play a role in tumor progression itself. Therefore, the pharmacological correction of cancer progression-related anomalies could contribute to control cancer diffusion, namely, the pineal endocrine deficiency and the hyperactivity of brain opioid system. In fact, the administration of pharmacological doses of the only MLT has already been proven to prolong the 1-year survival in untreatable metastatic cancer patients. Better results may be achieved by associating other pineal indoles to MLT, mu-opioid antagonists, cannabinoids, beta-carbolines. Moreover, these neuroendocrine combinations may be successfully associated with antitumor cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-2 and IL-12, as a PNE-immune cancer therapy as well as with antitumor plants as PNE-phytotherapy of cancer in an attempt to propose possible anticancer treatments also to patients with disseminated cancer and untreatable according to the standard oncology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Lissoni
- Department of Clinical Oncology, International Institute of Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology, Milan, Italy
| | - Giusy Messina
- Department of Clinical Oncology, International Institute of Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology, Milan, Italy
| | - Arianna Lissoni
- Department of Clinical Oncology, International Institute of Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology, Milan, Italy
| | - Rovelli Franco
- Department of Clinical Oncology, International Institute of Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology, Milan, Italy
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20
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Irish AK, Erickson CM, Wahls TL, Snetselaar LG, Darling WG. Randomized control trial evaluation of a modified Paleolithic dietary intervention in the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: a pilot study. Degener Neurol Neuromuscul Dis 2017; 7:1-18. [PMID: 30050374 PMCID: PMC6053098 DOI: 10.2147/dnnd.s116949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE A Paleolithic diet may improve fatigue and quality of life in progressive multiple sclerosis (MS) patients, but past research has evaluated the effects of this dietary intervention in combination with other treatments such as exercise. Thus, the purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate a modified Paleolithic dietary intervention (MPDI) in the treatment of fatigue and other symptoms in relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). METHODS We measured the effects of a MPDI in 17 individuals with RRMS. Of 34 subjects randomly assigned to control (maintain usual diet) and intervention (MPDI) groups, nine subjects (one man) completed the control group and eight subjects (one man) completed the MPDI. RESULTS Significant improvements were seen in Fatigue Severity Scale score and also in Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 and time to complete (dominant hand) 9-Hole Peg Test from baseline in MPDI subjects compared to controls. Increased vitamin K serum levels were also observed in MPDI subjects postprotocol compared to controls. CONCLUSION A Paleolithic diet may be useful in the treatment and management of MS, by reducing perceived fatigue, increasing mental and physical quality of life, increasing exercise capacity, and improving hand and leg function. By increasing vitamin K serum levels, the MPDI may also reduce inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda K Irish
- Motor Control Laboratories, Department of Health and Human Physiology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, The University of Iowa,
| | - Constance M Erickson
- Motor Control Laboratories, Department of Health and Human Physiology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, The University of Iowa,
| | - Terry L Wahls
- Veterans Affairs Medical Center
- Department of Internal Medicine, Carver College of Medicine
| | - Linda G Snetselaar
- Department of Epidemiology, College of Public Health, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Warren G Darling
- Motor Control Laboratories, Department of Health and Human Physiology, College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, The University of Iowa,
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21
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Bingham PM, Stuart SD, Zachar Z. Lipoic acid and lipoic acid analogs in cancer metabolism and chemotherapy. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2014; 7:837-46. [DOI: 10.1586/17512433.2014.966816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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22
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Vigil M, Berkson BM, Garcia AP. Adverse effects of high doses of intravenous alpha lipoic Acid on liver mitochondria. Glob Adv Health Med 2014; 3:25-7. [PMID: 24753992 PMCID: PMC3921613 DOI: 10.7453/gahmj.2013.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Alpha lipoic acid (ALA, thioctic acid), among other actions, is an essential coenzyme in the conversion of pyruvate to acetyl co-enzyme A. Therefore, it is necessary for the production of energy for aerobic organisms. Scientists have found that it can be used medically to help regenerate liver tissue, reverse the complications of diabetes mellitus, slow or stop the growth of cancer cells, and chelate heavy metals, among other actions. In this article, the authors describe the cellular mitochondrial damage from excessively high doses of this beneficial agent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Vigil
- Department of Biochemistry, New Mexico State University, Las Cruces (Dr Vigil)
| | - Burton M Berkson
- Integrative Medical Center of New Mexico, Las Cruces, Department of Entomology, Plant Pathology, and Weed Science, New Mexico State University (Dr Berkson)
| | - Ana Patricia Garcia
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia (Dr Garcia)
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23
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Fallah-Rostami F, Tabari MA, Esfandiari B, Aghajanzadeh H, Behzadi MY. Immunomodulatory activity of aged garlic extract against implanted fibrosarcoma tumor in mice. NORTH AMERICAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2013; 5:207-12. [PMID: 23626957 PMCID: PMC3632025 DOI: 10.4103/1947-2714.109191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Background: Garlic is known as a medicinal herb with broad therapeutic properties ranging from antibacterial to anticancer and even anticoagulant. Aim: Current study was designed to evaluate antitumor effects of aged garlic extract (AGE) on fibrosarcoma tumor in BALB/c mice. Materials and Methods: WEHI-164 fibrosarcoma cells were implanted subcutaneously on day zero into right flank of 40 BALB/c mice aged eight weeks. Mice were randomly categorized in two separate groups: 1st received AGE (100 mg/kg, intraperitoneally), 2nd group as control received phosphate buffered saline, (PBS). Treatments were done three times per week. Tumor growth was measured and morbidity was recorded. Subpopulations of CD4+/CD8+ T cells were determined using flow cytometry. WEHI-164 cell specific cytotoxicity of splenocytes and in vitro production of gamma-interferon, (IFN-γ) and Interleukin-4, (IL-4) cytokines were measured. Results: The mice received AGE had significantly longer survival time compared to control mice. The inhibitory effect on tumor growth was seen in AGE treated mice. The CD4+/CD8+ ratio and in vitro IFN-γ production of splenocytes were significantly increased in AGE group. Conclusions: Administration of AGE resulted in improved immune responses against experimentally implanted fibrosarcoma tumors in BALB/c mice. AGE showed significant effects on inhibition of tumor growth and longevity of survival times.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Fallah-Rostami
- Center for Development and Cooperation of Research and Technology, Ministry of Health and Medical Education, Tehran, Iran
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24
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Feuerecker B, Pirsig S, Seidl C, Aichler M, Feuchtinger A, Bruchelt G, Senekowitsch-Schmidtke R. Lipoic acid inhibits cell proliferation of tumor cells in vitro and in vivo. Cancer Biol Ther 2012; 13:1425-35. [PMID: 22954700 DOI: 10.4161/cbt.22003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cancer cells convert glucose preferentially to lactate even in the presence of oxygen (aerobic glycolysis-Warburg effect). New concepts in cancer treatment aim at inhibition of aerobic glycolysis. Pyruvate dehydrogenase converts pyruvate to acetylCoA thus preventing lactate formation. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate compounds that could activate pyruvate dehydrogenase in cancer cells. We investigated the effects of (R)-(+)-α-lipoic acid (LPA) and dichloroacetate (DCA), possible activators of pyruvate dehydrogenase, on suppression of aerobic glycolysis and induction of cell death. The neuroblastoma cell lines Kelly, SK-N-SH, Neuro-2a and the breast cancer cell line SkBr3 were incubated with different concentrations (0.1-30 mM) of LPA and DCA. The effects of both compounds on cell viability/proliferation (WST-1 assay), [18F]-FDG uptake, lactate production and induction of apoptosis (flow cytometric detection of caspase-3) were evaluated. Furthermore, NMRI nu/nu mice that had been inoculated s.c. with SkBr3 cells were treated daily for four weeks with LPA (i.p, 18.5 mg/kg) starting at day 7 p.i.. Tumor development was measured with a sliding caliper and monitored via [18F]-FDG-PET. Residual tumors after therapy were examined histopathologically. These data suggests that LPA can reduce (1) cell viability/proliferation, (2) uptake of [18F]-FDG and (3) lactate production and increase apoptosis in all investigated cell lines. In contrast, DCA was almost ineffective. In the mouse xenograft model with s.c. SkBr3 cells, daily treatment with LPA retarded tumor progression. Therefore, LPA seems to be a promising compound for cancer treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benedikt Feuerecker
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Technische Universitaet Muenchen, Munich, Germany
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25
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Schwartz L, Guais A, Israël M, Junod B, Steyaert JM, Crespi E, Baronzio G, Abolhassani M. Tumor regression with a combination of drugs interfering with the tumor metabolism: efficacy of hydroxycitrate, lipoic acid and capsaicin. Invest New Drugs 2012; 31:256-64. [DOI: 10.1007/s10637-012-9849-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2012] [Accepted: 06/12/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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26
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Influence of morphine on pericyte-endothelial interaction: implications for antiangiogenic therapy. JOURNAL OF ONCOLOGY 2012; 2012:458385. [PMID: 22315595 PMCID: PMC3270445 DOI: 10.1155/2012/458385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2011] [Accepted: 10/07/2011] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Morphine stimulates tumor angiogenesis and cancer progression in mice. We examined if morphine influences endothelial-pericyte interaction via platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDGF-BB) and PDGF receptor-β (PDGFR-β). Clinically relevant doses of morphine stimulated PDGF-BB secretion from human umbilical vein endothelial cells and activated PDGFR-β and mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) phosphorylation in human pericytes. These in vitro effects of morphine were translated into promotion of tumor angiogenesis in a transgenic mice model of breast cancer when treated with clinically used dose of morphine. Increased vessel-associated immunoreactivity of desmin and PDGFR-β was observed on pericytes in tumors of morphine-treated mice. These data suggest that morphine potentiates endothelial-pericyte interaction via PDGF-BB/PDGFR-β signaling and promotes tumor angiogenesis, pericyte recruitment, and coverage of tumor vessels. We speculate that morphine may impair the effectiveness of antiangiogenic therapy by influencing vascular pericyte coverage.
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Screening of well-established drugs targeting cancer metabolism: reproducibility of the efficacy of a highly effective drug combination in mice. Invest New Drugs 2011; 30:1331-42. [DOI: 10.1007/s10637-011-9692-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2011] [Accepted: 05/16/2011] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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28
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Adding a combination of hydroxycitrate and lipoic acid (METABLOC™) to chemotherapy improves effectiveness against tumor development: experimental results and case report. Invest New Drugs 2010; 30:200-11. [PMID: 20931262 DOI: 10.1007/s10637-010-9552-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2010] [Accepted: 09/23/2010] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Altered metabolism of cancer first highlighted by Otto Warburg has a long history. Although ignored for a considerable amount of time, it is now receiving substantial attention. We recently published results obtained with a combination of two drugs, lipoic acid and hydroxycitrate, targeting metabolic enzymes particularly affected in cancer: ATP citrate lyase and pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase. This treatment was as efficient as chemotherapy in the three mouse cancer models that were tested. In this work, we asked if our drug combination could be used in conjunction with standard cytotoxic chemotherapy, in particular cisplatin, to improve basic protocol efficacy. A combination of lipoic acid and hydroxycitrate was administered to mice implanted with syngeneic cancer cells, LL/2 lung carcinoma and MBT-2 bladder carcinoma, concommitantly with classical chemotherapy (cisplatin or methotrexate). We demonstrate that the triple combination lipoic acid + hydroxycitrate + cisplatin or methotrexate is more efficient than cisplatin or methotrexate used individually or the combination of lipoic acid and hydroxycitrate administered alone. Of particular note are the results obtained in the treatment of an 80 year-old female who presented with ductal adenocarcinoma of the pancreas accompanied by liver metastases. A treatment course using gemcitabine plus α-lipoic acid and hydroxycitrate gave highly promising results. The in vivo data, coupled with the case study results, suggest a possible advantage in using a treatment targeted at cancer metabolism in association with classical chemotherapy.
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