Background Glucagon-like petide-1 (GLP-1) agonists such as liraglutide
are widely employed in type 2 diabetes due to their glucose reducing
properties and small risk of hypoglycemia. Recently, it has been shown that
GLP-1agonists can inhibit breast cancer cells growth. Nonetheless, concerns
are remained about liraglutide tumor promoting effects as stated by
population studies.
Material and Methods We evaluated the effects liraglutide on
proliferation of MDA-MB-231 cells by MTT assay and then ATP-binding cassette
(ABC) transporters expressions assessed by Real time PCR. Statistical
comparisons were made using one-way analysis of variance followed by a post
hoc Dunnett test.
Results Here, we report that liraglutide can stimulate the growth of
highly invasive triple negative cell line MDA-MB-231; which can be
attributed to AMPK-dependent epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)
happening in MDA-MB-231 context. Toxicity effects were only observed with
concentrations far above the serum liraglutide concentration. ATP-binding
cassette (ABC) transporters expressions were upregulated, indicating the
possible drug resistance and increased EMT.
Conclusion In conclusion, these results suggest that liraglutide
should be used with caution in patients who are suffering or have the
personal history of triple negative breast cancer. However, more detailed
studies are required to deepen understanding of liraglutide consequences in
triple negative breast cancer. ▶Graphical Abstract.
A role for calcium in the regulation of ATP-binding cassette, sub-family C, member 3 (ABCC3) gene expression in a model of epidermal growth factor-mediated breast cancer epithelial–mesenchymal transition