Israeli Clalit data shows higher survival for patients using statins and sildenafil

Sildenafil, an active ingredient used to treat erectile dysfunction, may slow the development of cancer metastases. According to a study published in the journal Cancer Research, the drug restricts tumor cells' access to cholesterol, which is essential for their movement throughout the body.

Mechanism of Action

The process involves blocking phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) enzymes, which increases levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). While cGMP causes vasodilation in blood vessels, inside cancer cells it binds to a protein responsible for cholesterol transport. Without this component in their membranes, cancer cells cannot effectively detach from the primary tumor to create secondary foci.

Biophysicist Aleksey Kornilov explains that limiting the metabolism of specific molecules, such as cholesterol, can change the physical properties of cell membranes. This makes it harder for cells to migrate from the primary node into the bloodstream.

Evidence and Population

Researchers tested this hypothesis using human and mouse cells. They also analyzed 20 years of data from the Clalit health services organization in Israel, covering five million patients. The statistical analysis revealed that individuals taking both statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs) and medications for erectile dysfunction showed higher survival rates in cancer cases.

Synergistic Effect

The study suggests a synergistic effect between sildenafil and statins: one prevents cells from using cholesterol, while the other inhibits its synthesis. This indicates that a patient's overall metabolic health may influence the course of oncological therapy.

Limitations and Next Steps

The findings confirm a link between intracellular cholesterol levels and the ability of a tumor to metastasize. However, this research is not a clinical guideline for cancer treatment. Additional controlled human trials are required before such schemes can be implemented in medical practice.

Important: This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice. Do not start, stop, or change treatment without a qualified clinician.

Source: This article was adapted from an original Russian-language publication by Pravda. Ru.