Adapalene as an anticancer agent: A systematic review and meta-analysis of in vitro and in vivo studies.

BACKGROUND

Adapalene is a derivative of retinoid used for the treatment of skin acne. However, in recent years, Adapalene has been studied for its anti-cancer activity. Adapalene exerts its chemotherapeutic effect against various cancers by targeting cell cycle apoptosis and DNA repair mechanism.

HYPOTHESIS: In this study, we aimed to evaluate the potential role of the repurposed drug, Adapalene for its chemotherapeutic activity by reviewing various in vitro and in vivo studies.

STUDY

DESIGN

We searched the PubMed, PMC, Cochrane, and ctri.gov.in databases to identify relevant studies. The independent reviewers then selected the studies by assessing the risk bias and resolved the contradictions through discussion and consensus.

RESULTS

Eight studies were selected. The results demonstrated significant tumor reducing effect of adapalene on cell viability [Hedges's g: -9.05 [-6.39, -11.71-; τ2: 16.57; I2: 77.41 and p ≤ 0.05]; transwell activity (Hedges's g = -4.06 [95 % CI: -6.99, -1.14), Proliferation assays (Hedges's g = -7.47 [95 % CI: -9.27, -5.68), migration assays (Hedges's g = -8.43 [95 % CI: -10.56, -6.29]), tumor volume [Hedges's g: -4.06; 95 % CI: -6.99, -1.14; τ2: 14.72; I2: 95.10 % and p ≤ 0.05. and tumor weight Hedges's g: -2.97; 95 % CI: -4.93, -1.00; τ2: 4.53; I2: 84.84 % and p ≤ 0.05]. Adapalene exhibits its anti-cancer activity by targeting various molecules and signaling pathways.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, Adapalene shows potential as a promising drug repurposing candidate with anti-cancer activity. However, the heterogeneity and publication bias in the included studies highlight the need for further research.