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.