A dual role of proton pump inhibition on cancer: a critical review

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are widely used to suppress gastric acid secretion. Proton pumps belong to the family of ATPase and among them P-ATPase and V-ATPase types regulate intracellular as well as extracellular acid equilibrium. The main aim of the current survey is to present the existing literature putting forth the relation between cancer with both the use of PPIs and proton pumps from positive and negative aspects. To perform an objective study, various types of proton pumps and their relation to cancer have been taken into account. Up to date, the studies have been considered in the time range from 2011 to 2021 via various databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar). H+/K+ ATPase, located within the gastric parietal cells, is one of the most important examples of P-ATPases. The findings of the literature review along with criticism were presented as decreased P-ATPase expression can be used as a marker for gastric cancer diagnosis whereas the association of the proton pump with cancer may be mainly due to V-ATPase. In conclusion, molecular, epidemiological, and bioinformatic studies are required to enlighten the subject.