IMPACT OF MITOPHAGY UNDER METFORMIN TREATMENT IN BREAST CANCER CELL LINES

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women globally which emphasizes the need for effective therapeutic approaches. Metformin is a common antidiabetic drug which has gained attention for its anticancer properties. This study aims to examine the effect of metformin on mitophagy in two breast cancer cell lines—MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231. The measurement of mitochondrial membrane potential was assessed by using fluorescence microscopy and flow cytometry revealing a decrease in both cell lines following treatment. Western blot analysis estimated the expression of mitophagy markers – PINK1 and COX6 to evaluate mitophagy activation. The results suggest that metformin induces mitophagy by PINK1/Parkin pathway. This study highlights the therapeutic value of focusing on mitochondrial quality control in breast cancer subtypes.