Nitro-fatty acids: promising agents for the development of new cancer therapeutics

Trends Pharmacol Sci. 2024 Nov;45(11):1061-1080. doi: 10.1016/j.tips.2024.09.009. Epub 2024 Oct 25.

Abstract

Nitro-fatty acids (NO2-FAs) are endogenous pleiotropic lipid mediators regarded as promising drug candidates for treating inflammatory and fibrotic diseases. Over the past two decades, the anti-inflammatory and cytoprotective actions of NO2-FAs and several molecular targets have been identified. More recently, preclinical studies have demonstrated their potential as prospective cancer therapeutics with favorable safety and tumor-selective profiles. In this review, we describe the mechanisms of action, with a focus on NO2-FA antineoplastic and chemosensitizing effects. We also address the potential therapeutic applications of endogenous and structurally modified NO2-FAs species in cancer treatment.

Keywords: 26S proteasome; Rad51; breast cancer; cancer therapeutics; colon cancer; nitroalkenes.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents* / chemistry
  • Antineoplastic Agents* / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Drug Development
  • Fatty Acids* / chemistry
  • Fatty Acids* / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Nitro Compounds* / chemistry
  • Nitro Compounds* / pharmacology
  • Nitro Compounds* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Fatty Acids
  • Nitro Compounds