doxycycline inhibits Cancer stem Cell-like properties

​Doxycycline, a commonly used antibiotic, has been identified as a potential therapeutic agent against pancreatic cancer stem cells (CSCs). In a study published in Frontiers in Oncology, researchers investigated the effects of doxycycline on pancreatic CSC-like properties and the underlying molecular mechanisms.​ The study demonstrated that doxycycline effectively inhibits the proliferation and self-renewal capabilities of pancreatic CSCs. This inhibition is achieved through the suppression of the PAR1/FAK/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, which is crucial for maintaining CSC characteristics. By targeting this pathway, doxycycline reduces the tumorigenic potential of pancreatic CSCs, offering a promising strategy for pancreatic cancer treatment.​ These findings suggest that repurposing doxycycline, an already approved and widely used antibiotic, could provide a novel approach to targeting pancreatic cancer stem cells, potentially improving patient outcomes. Further clinical studies are warranted to validate these preclinical results and to explore the therapeutic potential of doxycycline in pancreatic cancer.