Prooxidant state in anticancer drugs and prospect use of mitochondrial cofactors and anti-inflammatory agents in cancer prevention

Abstract

An extensive body of literature has associated cancer with redox imbalance and inflammatory conditions. Thus, several studies and current clinical practice have relied on the use of anticancer drugs known to be associated with prooxidant state. On the other hand, a number of studies have reported on the effects of several antioxidants, anti-inflammatory agents and of mitochondrial cofactors (also termed mitochondrial nutrients, MNs) in counteracting or slowing carcinogenesis, or in controlling cancer growth. In the available literature, a body of evidence points on the roles of anti-inflammatory agents and of individual MNs against carcinogenesis or in controlling cancer cell proliferation, but only a few reports on the combined use of two or the effect of three MNs. These combinations are proposed as potentially successful tools to counteract carcinogenesis in prospective animal model studies or in adjuvant cancer treatment strategies. A "triad" of MNs are suggested to restore redox balance, mitigate side effects of prooxidative anticancer drugs, or aid in cancer prevention and/or adjuvant therapy. By elucidating their mechanistic underpinnings and appraising their clinical efficacy, we aim to contribute with a comprehensive understanding of these therapeutic modalities.

Keywords: l-Carnitine; Alpha-lipoic acid; Anti-inflammatory; Cancer; Coenzyme Q10; Mitochondria.