Metformin And Malignant Neoplasms: A Possible Mechanism Of Antitumor Action And Prospects For Use In Practice

Metformin, primarily used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus, has been found to have potential antitumor effects. It works by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and has been shown to inhibit tumor cell growth and promote apoptosis in basic research. However, clinical studies have yielded mixed results, possibly due to the lower doses used in practice compared to research settings. Metformin's antitumor action may be direct, through pathways like AMPK activation and inhibition of cyclin D1, or indirect, by reducing blood glucose, insulin resistance, and inflammation, all of which can influence tumor growth and metastasis. Despite the promising findings, further research is needed to resolve the contradictions and fully understand metformin's antitumor mechanisms.