Work

Repurposing antibiotics: A dual-action approach against bacteria-induced cancer

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Antibiotic resistance and the growing burden of bacteria-induced cancers highlight the urgent need for innovative therapeutic approaches. Drug repurposing, leveraging pre-approved antibiotics for novel applications, is a promising strategy to address this challenge. Antibiotics designed to combat bacterial infections can inhibit microbial activity and target cellular mechanisms associated with oncogenesis. Chronic bacterial infections, such as those caused by Salmonella typhi , Helicobacter pylori , and Escherichia coli , contribute significantly to gallbladder, gastric, kidney, and bladder cancers. These infections induce inflammation, DNA damage, and the disruption of cellular pathways, promoting the development of cancer. Antibiotics such as doxycycline, rifampicin, and azithromycin demonstrate anticancer properties by inhibiting angiogenesis, inducing apoptosis, and regulating key pathways including the interleukin (IL)-6 signaling pathway and autophagy-related pathways. This dual action enhances chemotherapeutic efficacy and addresses bacteria-induced oncogenesis, offering a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to traditional drug discovery. Herein, we review the intricate mechanisms by which bacteria-induced cancer arises and explore the groundbreaking potential of repurposing antibiotics as dual-action therapies in oncology. By elucidating the pivotal role of biofilms in persistent infections and highlighting untapped therapeutic opportunities in antibiotic repurposing, this review underscores a transformative approach to cancer treatment. This article explores the potential of repurposing antibiotic drugs for cancer treatment and highlights the prospects of drug repurposing strategies. • Bacteria-induced cancer is a significant health concern. • Anticancer drugs are not a definitive cure against bacterial-induced cancer. • Discovering new anticancer drugs is a lengthy process. • Drug repurposing enables using existing drugs for new indications. • Thus, antibiotics may prove effective against bacteria-induced cancer.

Source: Cancer Pathogenesis and Therapy

DOI: 10.1016/j.cpt.2025.02.005

Authors: Aditya Upadhyay, Hem Chandra Jha, Dharm Pal, Awanish Kumar

Institutions: National Institute of Technology Raipur, Indian Institute of Technology Indore

Language: English

Topic: Cancer Research and Treatments

Subfield: Biotechnology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,100