Possible Therapeutic Potential of Disulfiram for Multiple Myeloma

Curr Oncol. 2021 Jun 3;28(3):2087-2096. doi: 10.3390/curroncol28030193.

Abstract

Multiple myeloma (MM) is a malignant disease of the plasma cells representing approximately 10% of all hemato-oncological diseases. Detection of the disease is most probable at around 65 years of age, and the average survival of patients is estimated to be 5-10 years, specifically due to frequent relapses and resistance to the therapy used. Thus, the search for new therapeutic approaches is becoming a big challenge. Disulfiram (DSF), a substance primarily known as a medication against alcoholism, has often been mentioned in recent years in relation to cancer treatment for its secondary anti-cancer effects. Recent studies performed on myeloma cell lines confirm high inhibition of the cell growth activity if a complex of disulfiram and copper is used. Its significant potential is now being seen in the cure of haematological malignities.

Keywords: disulfiram; multiple myeloma; pharmacoresistant; relapses; therapy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Copper
  • Disulfiram* / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Multiple Myeloma* / drug therapy
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local

Substances

  • Copper
  • Disulfiram