Lenvatinib induces AKT/NF-κB inactivation, apoptosis signal transduction and growth inhibition of non-small cell lung cancer in vivo

Background/Aim: Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer with poor prognosis. Lenvatinib is a multi-kinase inhibitor that has the potential to suppress tumor progression. Our previous study suggested that lenvatinib induces cytotoxicity and apoptosis in CL-1-5-F4 cells in vitro. However, whether lenvatinib suppresses NSCLC progression in vivo remains unclear. Materials and Methods: Tumor growth inhibition and normal tissue toxicity evaluation following lenvatinib treatment were performed on CL-1-5-F4-bearing mice. Results: Tumor growth calculated by caliper and living cell intensity decreased by lenvatinib treatment as analysed by bioluminescence imaging. Phosphorylation of AKT, NF-κB, and NF-κB downstream proteins involved in tumor progression were reduced by lenvatinib in the tumor tissue. No pathological changes were found in the liver, kidney, and spleen after lenvatinib treatment. Conclusion: Induction of apoptosis and suppression of AKT/NF-.B were associated with lenvatinib-induced inhibition of the progression of NSCLC in vivo.