Abstract | OBJECTIVE: There is increasing pre-clinical and clinical evidence that metformin, a commonly used diabetes medication, has a protective effect in cancer. The aim of this review is to discuss metformin's anti- cancer molecular mechanisms of action and to summarize the current literature demonstrating metformin's potential in gynecologic cancer prevention and treatment. METHODS: RESULTS: CONCLUSIONS: Numerous clinical studies have reported an association between metformin use by diabetic patients and improved outcomes in gynecologic cancers. In addition, pre-clinical reports have identified plausible biological mechanisms to explain the molecular mechanism of action of metformin in cancer. However, the most important question remains unanswered: Will metformin be effective against cancer in patients without diabetes? Until this question is answered with prospective clinical testing, the role of metformin in the treatment or prevention of gynecologic malignancies remains theoretical and the clinical use of metformin as a cancer therapeutic is experimental.
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Authors | Terri Febbraro, Ernst Lengyel, Iris L Romero |
Journal | Gynecologic oncology
(Gynecol Oncol)
Vol. 135
Issue 3
Pg. 614-21
(Dec 2014)
ISSN: 1095-6859 [Electronic] United States |
PMID | 25455733
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review)
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Copyright | Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. |
Chemical References |
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Topics |
- Female
- Genital Neoplasms, Female
(prevention & control)
- Humans
- Metformin
(administration & dosage)
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