Niclosamide
Table of Contents
Introduction
Niclosamide is an FDA-approved anthelmintic drug primarily used to treat tapeworm infections. Recent research has highlighted its potential repurposing in treating other diseases, owing to its multifaceted biochemical properties.
Definitions and Concepts
Niclosamide: A synthetic, oral medication classified as a salicylanilide derivative. Originally developed for human and veterinary applications to combat cestode infections.
Anthelmintic: A type of drug that expels parasitic worms (helminths) and other internal parasites from the body without causing significant damage to the host.
Drug Repurposing: The process of identifying new therapeutic uses for existing medications beyond their originally intended applications.
Importance
Niclosamide is of growing importance due to its demonstrated ability to modulate various cellular pathways beyond its anti-parasitic effects. Its anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antiviral properties make it a versatile candidate for repurposing. Additionally, its cost-effectiveness, safety profile, and known pharmacokinetics enhance its value in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors for drug development.
Mechanism of Action
As an anthelmintic, Niclosamide disrupts the energy metabolism of tapeworms by uncoupling oxidative phosphorylation in their mitochondria. Beyond this, it has been found to:
- Inhibit key signaling pathways like Wnt/β-catenin, associated with cancer progression.
- Modulate autophagy and induce apoptosis in cancer cells.
- Exhibit broad antiviral activity through mechanisms such as viral protein degradation or interference with viral entry into host cells.
- Act as an anti-inflammatory agent by reducing cytokine release and dampening inflammatory pathways.
Applications
The versatility of Niclosamide extends beyond its original use, with emerging applications in:
- Infectious Diseases: Investigated as a therapeutic option against SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19), Zika virus, and other viral infections.
- Cancer Research: A promising agent in targeting tumors by interfering with cancer cell metabolism and proliferation.
- Inflammatory Diseases: Its anti-inflammatory properties suggest potential in autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
- Antimicrobial Resistance: Studies have shown its efficacy in combating bacterial biofilms, offering a potential solution to antibiotic resistance.
- Parasitology: Continues to be a reliable treatment for intestinal parasites in humans and animals.
