Neurokinin-1 Receptor (NK-1R) Antagonists as a New Strategy to Overcome Cancer Resistance

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Improving the response, quality of life and survival of oncologic patients through the design and application of the most appropriate treatment for each case is a great scientific challenge. Given the role of the axis formed by Substance P (SP) and its preferred receptor neurokinin-1 receptor (NK-1R) in cancer progression and resistance to oncologic treatments, in this review, we evaluate if the repurposing of aprepitant, which is a safe, efficient and marketed NK-1R antagonist, may be of help to overcome resistance to anticancer treatments. ABSTRACT: Nowadays, the identification of new therapeutic targets that allow for the development of treatments, which as monotherapy, or in combination with other existing treatments can contribute to improve response rates, prognosis and survival of oncologic patients, is a priority to optimize healthcare within sustainable health systems. Recent studies have demonstrated the role of Substance P (SP) and its preferred receptor, Neurokinin 1 Receptor (NK-1R), in human cancer and the potential antitumor activity of NK-1R antagonists as an anticancer treatment. In this review, we outline the relevant studies published to date regarding the SP/NK-1R complex as a key player in human cancer and also evaluate if the repurposing of already marketed NK-1R antagonists may be useful in the development of new treatment strategies to overcome cancer resistance.