Disulfiram Targets Breast Cancer Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Yip N C, Fombon I S, Liu P, Brown S, Kannappan V, Armesilla A L, Xu B, Cassidy J, Darling J L, Wang W
Primary Institution: Research Institute in Healthcare Science, School of Applied Sciences, University of Wolverhampton
Hypothesis
This study intended to examine the effect of disulfiram on breast cancer stem cells.
Conclusion
Disulfiram/copper inhibited breast cancer stem cells and enhanced the cytotoxicity of paclitaxel in breast cancer cell lines.
Supporting Evidence
- Disulfiram was highly toxic to breast cancer cell lines in a copper-dependent manner.
- Disulfiram/copper significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity of paclitaxel.
- Disulfiram/copper induced reactive oxygen species generation and activated apoptosis-related pathways.
Takeaway
Disulfiram, a drug used for alcoholism, can also kill breast cancer cells, especially when combined with copper, making chemotherapy more effective.
Methodology
The effect of disulfiram on breast cancer cell lines and breast cancer stem cells was determined using MTT assays, western blotting, and clonogenic assays.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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