The potential of naproxen and its derivatives in inhibiting the processes of initiation, promotion and progression of cancerogenesis

Abstract

Introduction: Naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug mainly used to treat
inflammation, pain, and fever of various etiology. Scientific studies conducted over the last
five years have shown, that its introduction significantly influenced neoplastic processes in
the in vitro and in vivo studies carried out within cell cultures and animal models.
Aim of the study: Our aim was to review the theses, extract and present the influence of
naproxen and its derivatives in signaling pathways involved in the initiation, promotion and
progression of cancer as well as to indicate potential directions for further research.
Methods and materials: We have reviewed the theses in the bibliographic PubMed database,
using the keywords: „naproxen”; „naproxen derivatives”; „cancer”; „cancer treatment”
„cancer prevention”.
Results: In addition to the well-known mechanism of inhibiting COX, there are scientific
proofs of the activity of naproxen against other molecules, such as PI3-K
(phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase), GSK-3β (glycogen synthase kinase-3β), NFκB (nuclear
transcription factor κB), MMP ( metalloproteinases), NO (nitric oxide) involved in neoplastic
processes.
Conclusion: Conclusions drawn from the analysis of specific molecular activities of naproxen
and its derivatives against neoplastic processes are promising. However, more preclinical
research is needed to confirm the effectiveness, practical applicability and to assess the side
effects of the therapy, before starting the clinical trials in humans.