Abstract
Cancer has been linked to metabolic disorders and diverse gene mutations. Metformin, which is widely used to treat type 2 diabetes, inhibits the growth of cancer cells in animal models. Here we investigated the effects of metformin on human gastric cancer cell lines. We also investigated the synergistic anticancer effect of metformin and proton pump inhibitors. Lansoprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, is effective for treating gastroesophageal reflux disease. Our results revealed that metformin and lansoprazole can significantly inhibit cancer cell growth in a dose-dependent manner by suppressing cell cycle progression and inducing apoptosis. Low concentrations of metformin and lansoprazole have a synergistic effect on AGS cell growth inhibition. In summary, our findings suggest a new and safe treatment protocol for treating stomach cancers.