Identifying the Effects of Montelukast in Head and Neck Cancer Cells

Abstract

Objective: Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCCs) are one of the most common cancer types worldwide. There are different treatment approaches including drug repurposing against HNSCCs. In this study, we aim to evaluate montelukast effect on HNSCC cell lines by proliferative capacity, self-renewal potential, and cell cycle dynamics. Methods: In the study, UM-SCC-47 and HSC-3 cell lines were cultured and treated with 10 uM montelukast. Control and treated cells investigated by colony formation assay, sphere formation assay. Stemness-related markers were detected via qRT-PCR and cell cycle analysis was performed with flow cytometry. Results: The sphere formation assay demonstrated that the montelukast treated group was smaller and organized compared to the control. NANOG and SOX2 mRNA levels were reduced whereas KLF4 and OCT3/4 increased. Colony formation was reduced in the montelukast treated group. Cell cycle was arrested in the S phase in montelukast-treated HNSCC groups. Conclusion: Montelukast treatment at a concentration of 10 μM impacted several functional properties of head and neck cancer cells, highlighting its potential effects in this context. Future studies should explore a broader range of concentrations to better understand its therapeutic potential and dose-dependent effects.

Keywords

• Head and Neck Cancer
• Antihistamine
• Montelukast
• Inhibitor of cysteinyl leukotriene receptors
• Antitumor Effect

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