Repurposing ivermectin: a new hope for glioblastoma multiforme?

Mohtashami E., Bibak B., Sanati M., Afshari S., Kahkhaie K. R., Vahedi M. M., ...More

Medicinal Chemistry Research, vol.34, no.8, pp.1603-1615, 2025 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Review
  • Volume: 34 Issue: 8
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.1007/s00044-025-03435-z
  • Journal Name: Medicinal Chemistry Research
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, BIOSIS, CAB Abstracts, Chemical Abstracts Core, Chimica, Veterinary Science Database
  • Page Numbers: pp.1603-1615
  • Keywords: Anticancer, Antiproliferative, Glioblastoma multiforme, Ivermectin, Macrocyclic lactone
  • Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Ivermectin is the most extensively researched macrocyclic lactone due to its potential anticancer and antiparasitic use. Nonetheless, there are more compounds within this family, including doramectin and abamectin. In the current era of medicinal repurposing, ivermectin has received renewed focus following its initial development for the treatment of parasitic conditions such as scabies, elephantiasis, and river blindness. Recent studies indicate that ivermectin may inhibit the proliferation of specific tumor cells by regulating many signaling pathways implicated in cancer progression. Despite the growing body of research on the topic, critical issues about its anticancer processes remain unresolved. Our study focused on ivermectin, its mechanisms of action, and its potential uses against glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).