Induction of autophagy-dependent apoptosis in cancer cells through activation of ER stress: an uncovered anti-cancer mechanism by anti-alcoholism drug disulfiram.

Abstract

DSF/Cu induces ER-stress through activation of IRE1α-XBP1 pathway which is responsible, at least in part, for induction of autophagy-dependent apoptosis of cancer cells. Insight into the ER-stress inducing ability by DSF/Cu may open a new research area for rational design of innovative therapeutic strategies for pancreatic and breast cancers.