In silico and cheminformatics prediction with experimental validation of an adipogenesis cocktail, sorafenib with rosiglitazone for HCC dedifferentiation

Abstract

Purpose: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) resistance to sorafenib treatment and other treatment strategies causes a higher mortality rate in patients diagnosed with HCC. Research question. HCC often develops resistance to sorafenib treatment and other therapies, leading to increased mortality rates in diagnosed patients. Herein, we propose a combined therapeutic approach using rosiglitazone, a key factor in cellular differentiation, along with adipogenesis inducers such as dexamethasone, IBMX, and insulin. Additionally, we included sorafenib, a primary drug for liver cancer treatment, in this combination cocktail and carried out the differentiation process in the presence of sorafenib. Results: Our study demonstrates that this combination induces the formation of adipocytes from HCC cells over several days under specific conditions and steps. Conclusion. findings suggest that supplementing sorafenib with rosiglitazone and adipogenesis inducers may potentially transform HCC cells into adipocyte-like cells. Fat could be “the good” in the story of liver cancer alleviation, demonstrating the role of rosiglitazone.