The Potential Therapeutic Impact of Metformin in Glioblastoma Multiforme

In terms of frequency and aggressiveness, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is undoubtedly the most frequent and fatal primary brain tumor. Despite advances in clinical management, the response to current treatments is dismal, with a 2-year survival rate varying between 6 and 12 percent. Metformin, a derivative of biguanide widely used in treating type 2 diabetes, has been shown to extend the lifespan of patients with various malignancies. There is limited evidence available on the long-term survival of GBM patients who have taken metformin. This research examined the literature to assess the connection between metformin's anticancer properties and GBM development. Clinical findings, together with the preclinical data from animal models and cell lines, are included in the present review. This comprehensive review covers not only the association of hyperactivation of the AMPK pathway with the anticancer activity of metformin but also other mechanisms underpinning its role in apoptosis, cell proliferation, metastasis, as well as its chemo-radio-sensitizing behavior against GBM. Current challenges and future directions for developments and applications of metformin-based therapeutics are also discussed.

Automated summary

This research reviewed the literature to assess the connection between metformin's anticancer properties and the development of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). The comprehensive review found that metformin not only inhibits tumor growth by activating the AMPK pathway, but also induces cell apoptosis, inhibits cell proliferation and metastasis, and enhances chemo-radio-sensitizing behavior against GBM through other mechanisms. Further research is needed to explore the potential of metformin-based therapeutics for GBM and the challenges they may face.