Journal Article Review Epublish
PubMed: 39992596 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-025-01985-7
Multifaceted role of heparin in oncology: from anticoagulation to anticancer mechanisms and clinical implications.
Discov Oncol 16(1):231
Authors: Niranjan Koirala, Melina Poudel, Amit Kumar Shrivastava, Romit Kumar Subba, Mamata Panthi, Samrat Paudel, Zainab M Almarhoon, Javad Sharifi-Rad, Daniela Calina
Affiliations
- Specialized Research Center, Nepal Academy of Science and Technology, Pokhara, Gandaki, Nepal.
- Department of Chemical and Biological Sciences, Youngstown State University, 1 Tressel Way, Youngstown, OH, 44555, USA.
- Arkansas Biosciences Institute, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR, 72401, USA.
- Molecular Biosciences Graduate program, Arkansas State University, Jonesboro, AR, 72401, USA.
- College of Pharmacy, Gachon University, Hambakmoe-ro, Incheon, 21936, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Biotechnology, Kathmandu University, Dhulikhel, Nepal.
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Saud University, P. O. Box 2455, 11451, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Universidad EspÃritu Santo, Samborondón, Ecuador.
- Centro de Estudios Tecnológicos y Universitarios del Golfo, Veracruz, Mexico.
- Department of Medicine, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, 200349, Craiova, Romania.
Abstract
Heparin, traditionally known for its anticoagulant properties, has recently been identified as a potential agent in cancer therapy. Its derivatives, including low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) and unfractionated heparin (UFH), are being investigated for their multifaceted roles in oncology. This review focuses on the expanding exploration of heparin's anticancer effects and its possible integration into cancer treatment protocols. The primary aim is to consolidate and analyze current research on the anticancer properties of heparin and its derivatives. It seeks to illuminate the mechanisms by which these compounds influence cancer progression, including their impact on angiogenesis, tumor cell proliferation, immune response modulation, and the inhibition of cancer cell migration and invasion. Additionally, the review aims to evaluate the potential of heparin and its derivatives in complementing existing chemotherapy treatments. An extensive literature review was conducted, encompassing in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. Sources included a range of scientific databases, employing keywords related to heparin and oncology. The selected studies were critically reviewed to extract relevant data on the efficacy, mechanisms, and potential clinical applications of heparin in cancer therapy. The results reveals that heparin and its derivatives exhibit significant anticancer activity across various research settings; key findings include the inhibition of angiogenesis, reduction in tumor cell proliferation, stimulation of immune responses, and the limitation of cancer cell migration and invasion. The compounds also show promise as adjuncts to conventional chemotherapy, potentially enhancing the efficacy of existing cancer treatments. This review highlights the burgeoning role of heparin and its derivatives in the realm of cancer therapy, marking a shift from their traditional use as anticoagulants. While promising, the research underscores the need for further comprehensive studies to fully understand the mechanisms of action, optimal dosing, potential side effects, and patient selection criteria. The potential integration of heparin into cancer treatment regimens opens new therapeutic possibilities warranting continued investigation in this rapidly evolving field.
MeSH
Cells, Cell Proliferation, Anticoagulants, Neoplasms, Heparin, Drug Therapy, Immunity, Research, Therapeutics, Heparin, Low-Molecular-Weight, Chemotherapy, Angiogenesis