Research advances on how metformin improves memory impairment in chemobrain

Cognitive impairment caused by chemotherapy, referred to as chemobrain, is observed in approximately 70% of cancer survivors. However, it is not completely understood how chemotherapy induces cognitive dysfunction, and clinical treatment strategies for this problem are lacking. Metformin, used as a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus, is reported to reduce the effects of chemobrain. Recently, several studies have examined the effect of metformin in rescuing chemobrain. This review discusses recent clinical/preclinical studies that addressed some mechanisms of chemobrain and evaluates the effect of metformin in rescuing chemobrain and its potential mechanisms of action.

Automated summary

Chemobrain, a cognitive impairment caused by chemotherapy, affects approximately 70% of cancer survivors. The mechanisms of chemobrain induction and effective clinical treatment strategies are still not completely understood. Recent studies have shown that metformin, a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes, may mitigate the effects of chemobrain. This review discusses the mechanisms of chemobrain and evaluates the efficacy of metformin in rescuing chemobrain.