Repurposing Auranofin for Oncology and Beyond: A Brief Overview of Clinical Trials as Mono- and Combination Therapy

Auranofin (AF), originally used for rheumatoid arthritis, is being repurposed for oncology and other diseases due to its ability to inhibit thioredoxin reductase, which disrupts cancer cell survival. Clinical trials have explored AF as both a monotherapy and in combination with other treatments for various cancers, including ovarian cancer and chronic lymphocytic leukemia, as well as non-oncological conditions like parasitic infections. While early-phase trials show promise, with some indicating safety and potential efficacy, further research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm AF's effectiveness and safety. The ongoing studies underscore AF's potential for broader medical applications beyond its initial use.