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Review
. 2023 Jul 26:14:1203447.
doi: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1203447. eCollection 2023.

Targeting copper metabolism: a promising strategy for cancer treatment

Ruimin Kong  1 , Guojuan Sun  2
Affiliations
Review

Targeting copper metabolism: a promising strategy for cancer treatment

Ruimin Kong et al. Front Pharmacol. .

Abstract

Copper is an essential micronutrient that plays a critical role in many physiological processes. However, excessive copper accumulation in cancer cells has been linked to tumor growth and metastasis. This review article explores the potential of targeting copper metabolism as a promising strategy for cancer treatment. Excessive copper accumulation in cancer cells has been associated with tumor growth and metastasis. By disrupting copper homeostasis in cancer cells and inducing cell death through copper-dependent mechanisms (cuproplasia and cuprotosis, respectively), therapies can be developed with improved efficacy and reduced side effects. The article discusses the role of copper in biological processes, such as angiogenesis, immune response, and redox homeostasis. Various approaches for targeting copper metabolism in cancer treatment are examined, including the use of copper-dependent enzymes, copper-based compounds, and cuprotosis-related genes or proteins. The review also explores strategies like copper chelation therapy and nanotechnology for targeted delivery of copper-targeting agents. By understanding the intricate network of cuprotosis and its interactions with the tumor microenvironment and immune system, new targets for therapy can be identified, leading to improved cancer treatment outcomes. Overall, this comprehensive review highlights the significant potential of targeting copper metabolism as a promising and effective approach in cancer treatment, while providing valuable insights into the current state of research in this field.

Keywords: cancer treatment; copper; cuprotosis; metabolism; tumor microenvironment.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
Copper hemostasis and cuprotosis in cells.
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 2
Mechanism of targeting copper or cuprotosis and its potential role in targeted therapy of cancer treatment.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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