Recent Insights of Metformin on Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC)

Abstract

Metformin is an oral hypoglycemic drug, the first option used to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus due to its high efficacy and low cost. Recently, it has drawn attention among researchers due to its new-found antitumor effect. Growing evidence showed that metformin could inhibit cancer progression, especially in hepatocellular carcinoma, and several clinical trials are underway. However, the underlying mechanisms of the inhibition of hepatocellular carcinoma remain to be further explored and clarified. Herein, we reviewed the latest findings of how metformin acts against hepatocellular carcinoma and the proposed mechanisms. In addition, we included related preclinical trials, along with the limitations and perspectives of its treatment in hepatocellular carcinoma, providing novel ideas for research to conquer hepatocellular carcinoma.

Keywords: HCC; apoptosis; cell cycle arrest; immune modulation; mechanism; metformin.