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Xue M, Ge Y, Yu C, Zheng Z, He X, Zhao J. Apoptosis is induced by docosahexaenoic acid in breast cancer cells via death receptor and mitochondria-mediated pathways. Mol Med Rep 2017; 16:978-982. [DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2017.6678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
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2
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Glew J, Sullivan C. Nutrition. Integr Cancer Ther 2016. [DOI: 10.1177/1534735406288440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jacki Glew
- Clinical Nutrition Specialist Block Center for Integrative Cancer Care 1800 Sherman Avenue, Suite 350 Evanston, IL 60201 Tel: 847-492-3040
| | - Cheryl Sullivan
- Clinical Dietitian Ingalls Memorial Hospital One Ingalls Drive Harvey, IL 60426 Tel: 708-915-5715
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Interaction of PKCα with the armadillo repeats facilitates the N-terminal phosphorylation of β-catenin. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2014; 450:1673-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2014.07.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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4
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Docosahexaenoic acid inhibited the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and suppressed breast cancer cells in vitro and in vivo. J Nutr Biochem 2013; 25:104-10. [PMID: 24290517 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2013.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2013] [Revised: 07/02/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
N-3 fatty acids (FAs) are essential FAs necessary for human health and are known to possess anticancer properties. However, the relationship between n-3 FAs and β-catenin, one of the key components of the Wnt signaling pathway, in mouse breast cancer remains poorly characterized. In this study, 4T1 mouse breast cancer cells were exposed to a representative n-3 FA, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), to investigate the relationship between n-3 FAs and the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway in vivo and in vitro. In vitro studies showed that DHA strongly inhibited cell growth, and induced G1 cell cycle arrest both in 4T1 mouse breast cells and MCF-7 human breast cells. DHA reduced β-catenin expression and T cell factor/lymphoid-enhancing factor reporter activity in 4T1 mouse breast cells. In addition, DHA down-regulated the expression of downstream target genes such as c-myc and cyclinD1. In vivo, therapy experiments were conducted on Babl/c mice bearing breast cancer. We found that feeding mouse the 5% fish oil-supplemented diet for 30 days significantly reduced the growth of 4T1 mouse breast cancer in vivo through inhibition of cancer cell proliferation as well as induction of apoptosis. Feeding animals a 5% fish oil diet significantly induced down-regulation of β-catenin in tumor tissues with a notable increase in apoptosis. In addition, fish oil-supplemented diet decreased lung metastases of breast cancer. These observations suggested that DHA exerted its anticancer activity through down-regulation of Wnt/β-catenin signaling. Thus, our data call for further studies to assess the effectiveness of fish oil as a dietary supplement in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.
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Stephenson JA, Al-Taan O, Arshad A, Morgan B, Metcalfe MS, Dennison AR. The multifaceted effects of omega-3 polyunsaturated Fatty acids on the hallmarks of cancer. J Lipids 2013; 2013:261247. [PMID: 23762563 PMCID: PMC3671553 DOI: 10.1155/2013/261247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2013] [Revised: 03/26/2013] [Accepted: 04/05/2013] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, in particular eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid have been shown to have multiple beneficial antitumour actions that affect the essential alterations that dictate malignant growth. In this review we explore the putative mechanisms of action of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid in cancer protection in relation to self-sufficiency in growth signals, insensitivity to growth-inhibitory signals, apoptosis, limitless replicative potential, sustained angiogenesis, and tissue invasion, and how these will hopefully translate from bench to bedside.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. A. Stephenson
- Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK
- Department of Imaging, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK
| | - O. Al-Taan
- Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK
- Department of Surgery, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester LE5 4PW, UK
| | - A. Arshad
- Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK
- Department of Surgery, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester LE5 4PW, UK
| | - B. Morgan
- Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK
- Department of Imaging, Leicester Royal Infirmary, Leicester LE1 5WW, UK
| | - M. S. Metcalfe
- Department of Surgery, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester LE5 4PW, UK
| | - A. R. Dennison
- Department of Surgery, University Hospitals of Leicester, Leicester General Hospital, Leicester LE5 4PW, UK
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Wu MH, Tsai YT, Hua KT, Chang KC, Kuo ML, Lin MT. Eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid inhibit macrophage-induced gastric cancer cell migration by attenuating the expression of matrix metalloproteinase 10. J Nutr Biochem 2012; 23:1434-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2011.09.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2011] [Revised: 09/13/2011] [Accepted: 09/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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7
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Dyck MC, Ma DWL, Meckling KA. The anticancer effects of Vitamin D and omega-3 PUFAs in combination via cod-liver oil: One plus one may equal more than two. Med Hypotheses 2011; 77:326-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2011.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2010] [Revised: 03/24/2011] [Accepted: 05/02/2011] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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8
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Kariyazono H, Nakamura K. Pleiotropic Effects of Dietary Fatty Acids and Fatty Acid Involvement in Chronic Mild Inflammation-related Diseases. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1248/jhs.56.473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hiroko Kariyazono
- Division of Pharmaceutical Health Care and Sciences, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagasaki International University
| | - Kazuo Nakamura
- Department of Biopharmaceutics, Nihon Pharmaceutical University
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Anderson BM, Ma DWL. Are all n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids created equal? Lipids Health Dis 2009; 8:33. [PMID: 19664246 PMCID: PMC3224740 DOI: 10.1186/1476-511x-8-33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 208] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2009] [Accepted: 08/10/2009] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
N-3 Polyunsaturated fatty acids have been shown to have potential beneficial effects for chronic diseases including cancer, insulin resistance and cardiovascular disease. Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in particular have been studied extensively, whereas substantive evidence for a biological role for the precursor, alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), is lacking. It is not enough to assume that ALA exerts effects through conversion to EPA and DHA, as the process is highly inefficient in humans. Thus, clarification of ALA's involvement in health and disease is essential, as it is the principle n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid consumed in the North American diet and intakes of EPA and DHA are typically very low. There is evidence suggesting that ALA, EPA and DHA have specific and potentially independent effects on chronic disease. Therefore, this review will assess our current understanding of the differential effects of ALA, EPA and DHA on cancer, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular disease. Potential mechanisms of action will also be reviewed. Overall, a better understanding of the individual role for ALA, EPA and DHA is needed in order to make appropriate dietary recommendations regarding n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanne M Anderson
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario N1G2W1 Canada.
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Berquin IM, Edwards IJ, Chen YQ. Multi-targeted therapy of cancer by omega-3 fatty acids. Cancer Lett 2008; 269:363-77. [PMID: 18479809 PMCID: PMC2572135 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2008.03.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 278] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2008] [Revised: 01/15/2008] [Accepted: 03/28/2008] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Omega-3 (n-3) and omega-6 (n-6) polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are essential fatty acids necessary for human health. Currently, the Western diet contains a disproportionally high amount of n-6 PUFAs and low amount of n-3 PUFAs, and the resulting high n-6/n-3 ratio is thought to contribute to cardiovascular disease, inflammation, and cancer. Studies in human populations have linked high consumption of fish or fish oil to reduced risk of colon, prostate, and breast cancer, although other studies failed to find a significant association. Nonetheless, the available epidemiological evidence, combined with the demonstrated effects of n-3 PUFAs on cancer in animal and cell culture models, has motivated the development of clinical interventions using n-3 PUFAs in the prevention and treatment of cancer, as well as for nutritional support of cancer patients to reduce weight loss and modulate the immune system. In this review, we discuss the rationale for using long-chain n-3 PUFAs in cancer prevention and treatment and the challenges that such approaches pose in the design of clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle M. Berquin
- Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
- Department of Pathology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Iris J. Edwards
- Department of Pathology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Yong Q. Chen
- Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
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11
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Abstract
Epidemiologic studies have suggested for decades an association between dietary fat and cancer risk. A large body of work performed in tissue culture and xenograft models of cancer supports an important role of various types of fat in modulating the cancer phenotype. Yet, the molecular mechanisms underlining the effects of fat on cancer initiation and progression are largely unknown. The relationships between saturated fat, polyunsaturated fat, cholesterol or phytanic acid with cancer have been reviewed respectively. However, few have considered the relationship between all of these fats and cancer. The purpose of this review is to present a more cohesive view of dietary fat-gene interactions, and outline a working hypothesis of the intricate connection between fat, genes and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Q Chen
- Cancer Biology, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, Medical Center Blvd., Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
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Lee S, Gura KM, Kim S, Arsenault DA, Bistrian BR, Puder M. Current clinical applications of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Nutr Clin Pract 2006; 21:323-41. [PMID: 16870801 DOI: 10.1177/0115426506021004323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent years have brought a resurgence of research interest in fatty acids, with studied fields running the gamut of human disease. This movement has run in parallel with an increased interest in using nutrition modalities as therapeutic measures, as opposed to their conventional role as energy sources. The aim of this manuscript is to provide a basic review of current clinical applications of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, with a particular focus on the latter. METHODS A selective review of the voluminous literature, including randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, population studies, and case reports, was used to compile data and identify trends in pertinent clinical applications of fatty acid therapy. CONCLUSIONS There are a myriad of disorders and maladies that seem to benefit from fatty acid supplementation, specifically omega-3 fatty acids. It has clearly been shown that omega-3 fatty acid supplementation provides a protective benefit in heart disease, and in particular sudden cardiac death. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is another disease entity that has been proven to benefit from this nutrition intervention, with improvement in symptoms and diminished nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID) usage. In addition, many psychiatric disorders, particularly schizophrenia and major depressive disorder (MDD), have shown positive results when supplementation has been used as an adjunct to standard pharmacotherapy. The remainder of clinical applications for omega-3 fatty acids requires further investigation. Specifically, according to preliminary clinical evidence, parenteral administration of fatty acids warrants further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sang Lee
- Children's Hospital Boston, 300 Longwood Ave., MA 02115, USA
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13
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McCarty MF. Targeting multiple signaling pathways as a strategy for managing prostate cancer: multifocal signal modulation therapy. Integr Cancer Ther 2005; 3:349-80. [PMID: 15523106 DOI: 10.1177/1534735404270757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The aberrant behavior of cancer reflects upregulation of certain oncogenic signaling pathways that promote proliferation, inhibit apoptosis, and enable the cancer to spread and evoke angiogenesis. Theoretically, it should be feasible to decrease the activity of these pathways-or increase the activity of pathways that oppose them-with noncytotoxic agents. Since multiple pathways are dysfunctional in most cancers, and cancers accumulate new oncogenic mutations as they progress, the greatest and most durable therapeutic benefit will likely be achieved with combination regimens that address several targets. Thus, a multifocal signal modulation therapy (MSMT) of cancer is proposed. This concept has already been documented by researchers who have shown that certain combinations of signal modulators-of limited utility when administered individually-can achieve dramatic suppression of tumor growth in rodent xenograft models. The present essay attempts to guide development of MSMTs for prostate cancer. Androgen ablation is a signal-modulating measure already in standard use in the management of delocalized prostate cancer. The additional molecular targets considered here include the type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor, the epidermal growth factor receptor, mammalian target of rapamycin, NF-kappaB, hypoxia-inducible factor-1alpha, hsp90, cyclooxygenase-2, protein kinase A type I, vascular endothelial growth factor, 5-lipoxygenase, 12-lipoxygenase, angiotensin II receptor type 1, bradykinin receptor type 1, c-Src, interleukin-6, ras, MDM2, bcl-2/bclxL, vitamin D receptor, estrogen receptor-beta, and PPAR-. Various nutrients and phytochemicals suspected to have potential utility in prostate cancer prevention and therapy, but whose key molecular targets are still unknown, might reasonably be incorporated into MSMTs for prostate cancer; these include lycopene, selenium, green tea polyphenols, genistein, and silibinin. MSMTs can be developed systematically by testing various combinations of signal-modulating agents, in concentrations that can feasibly be achieved and maintained clinically, on human prostate cancer cell lines; combinations that appear promising can then be tested in xenograft models and, ultimately, in the clinic. Some signal modulators can increase response to cytotoxic drugs by upregulating effectors of apoptosis. When MSMTs fail to raise the spontaneous apoptosis rate sufficiently to achieve tumor stasis or regression, incorporation of appropriate cytotoxic agents into the regimen may improve the clinical outcome.
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Abstract
Supplementing the diet of tumor-bearing mice or rats with oils containing (n-3) (omega-3) or with purified (n-3) fatty acids has slowed the growth of various types of cancers, including lung, colon, mammary, and prostate. The efficacy of cancer chemotherapy drugs such as doxorubicin, epirubicin, CPT-11, 5-fluorouracil, and tamoxifen, and of radiation therapy has been improved when the diet included (n-3) fatty acids. Some potential mechanisms for the activity of (n-3) fatty acids against cancer include modulation of eicosanoid production and inflammation, angiogenesis, proliferation, susceptibility for apoptosis, and estrogen signaling. In humans, (n-3) fatty acids have also been used to suppress cancer-associated cachexia and to improve the quality of life. In one study, the response to chemotherapy therapy was better in breast cancer patients with higher levels of (n-3) fatty acids in adipose tissue [indicating past consumption of (n-3) fatty acids] than in patients with lower levels of (n-3) fatty acids. Thus, in combination with standard treatments, supplementing the diet with (n-3) fatty acids may be a nontoxic means to improve cancer treatment outcomes and may slow or prevent recurrence of cancer. Used alone, an (n-3) supplement may be a useful alternative therapy for patients who are not candidates for standard toxic cancer therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Elaine Hardman
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA.
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McCarty MF. A wholly nutritional 'multifocal angiostatic therapy' for control of disseminated cancer. Med Hypotheses 2003; 61:1-15. [PMID: 12781633 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-9877(02)00227-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A great deal of effort is now being devoted to the development of new drugs that hopefully will control the spread of inoperable cancer by safely inhibiting tumor-evoked angiogenesis. However, there is growing evidence that certain practical nutritional measures have the potential to slow tumor angiogenesis, and it is reasonable to anticipate that, by combining several measures that work in distinct but complementary ways to impede the angiogenic process, a clinically useful 'multifocal angiostatic therapy' (MAT) might be devised. Several measures which might reasonably be included in such a protocol are discussed below, and include: a low-fat, low-glycemic index vegan diet, which may down-regulate the systemic IGF-I activity that supports angiogenesis; supplemental omega-3-rich fish oil, which has been shown to inhibit endothelial expression of Flk-1, a functionally crucial receptor for VEGF, and also can suppress tumor production of pro-angiogenic eicosanoids; high-dose selenium, which has recently been shown to inhibit tumor production of VEGF; green tea polyphenols, which can suppress endothelial responsiveness to both VEGF and fibroblast growth factor; and high-dose glycine, whose recently reported angiostatic activity may reflect inhibition of endothelial cell mitosis, possibly mediated by activation of glycine-gated chloride channels. In light of evidence that tumor-evoked angiogenesis has a high requirement for copper, copper depletion may have exceptional potential as an angiostatic measure, and is most efficiently achieved with the copper-chelating drug tetrathiomolybdate. If logistical difficulties make it difficult to acquire this experimental drug, high-dose zinc supplementation can achieve a slower depletion of the body's copper pool, and in any case can be used as maintenance therapy to maintain an adequate level of copper depletion. A provisional protocol is offered for a nutritionally based MAT entailing a vegan diet and supplemental intakes of fish oil, selenium, green tea polyphenols, glycine, and zinc. Inasmuch as cox-2 is overexpressed in many cancers, and cAMP can boost tumor production of various angiogenic factors as well as autogenous growth factors, adjunctive use of cox-2-specific NSAIDS may be warranted in some cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F McCarty
- Pantox Laboratories, San Diego, California 92129, USA
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16
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Rex S, Kukuruzinska MA, Istfan NW. Inhibition of DNA replication by fish oil-treated cytoplasm is counteracted by fish oil-treated nuclear extract. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2002; 283:C1365-75. [PMID: 12372797 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00121.2002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
We have recently noted that cells treated with fish oil and n-3-fatty acids show slower DNA replication rates than cells treated with a control emulsion or corn oil only. However, it is not clearly understood how such an effect is induced. Fish oil and its metabolites are known to have several modulating effects on signal transduction pathways. Alternatively, they may influence DNA replication by interacting directly with nuclear components. To investigate this problem in greater detail, we have studied the kinetics of DNA synthesis in a cell-free system derived from HeLa cells. Nuclei and cytosolic extract were isolated from cells synchronized in early S phase after treatment with control emulsion, corn oil, or fish oil, respectively. The nuclei were reconstituted with cytosolic extract and a reaction mixture containing bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) triphosphate to label newly synthesized DNA. The rate of DNA synthesis was measured by bivariate DNA/BrdU analysis and flow cytometry. We show that fish oil-treated cytosol inhibits the elongation of newly synthesized DNA by ~80% in control nuclei. However, nuclei treated with fish oil escape this inhibitory effect. We also show that addition of nuclear extract from fish oil-treated cells reverses the inhibitory effect seen in the reconstitution system of control nuclei and fish oil-treated cytosol. These results indicate that polyunsaturated fatty acids can modulate DNA synthesis through cytosolic as well as soluble nuclear factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sybille Rex
- Department of Medicine, Section of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition, Boston University School of Medicine, Massachusetts 02118, USA
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Abstract
The results of animal studies have demonstrated that the consumption of omega-3 fatty acids can slow the growth of cancer xenografts, increase the efficacy of chemotherapy and reduce the side effects of the chemotherapy or of the cancer. Molecular mechanisms postulated to contribute to the multiple benefits of omega-3 fatty acids include 1) suppressing the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 in tumors, thus decreasing proliferation of cancer cells and reducing angiogenesis in the tumor; 2) decreasing the expression of AP-1 and ras, two oncogenes implicated in tumor promotion; 3) inducing differentiation of cancer cells; 4) suppressing nuclear factor-kappaB activation and bcl-2 expression, thus allowing apoptosis of cancer cells; and 5) reducing cancer-induced cachexia. It seems reasonable to assume that after appropriate cancer therapy, consumption of omega-3 fatty acids might slow or stop the growth of metastatic cancer cells, increase longevity of cancer patients and improve their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Elaine Hardman
- Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70808, USA.
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McCarty MF. Current prospects for controlling cancer growth with non-cytotoxic agents--nutrients, phytochemicals, herbal extracts, and available drugs. Med Hypotheses 2001; 56:137-54. [PMID: 11425277 DOI: 10.1054/mehy.2000.1126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
In animal or cell culture studies, the growth and spread of cancer can be slowed by many nutrients, food factors, herbal extracts, and well-tolerated, available drugs that are still rarely used in the clinical management of cancer, in part because they seem unlikely to constitute definitive therapies in themselves. However, it is reasonable to expect that mechanistically complementary combinations of these measures could have a worthwhile impact on survival times and, when used as adjuvants, could improve the cure rates achievable with standard therapies. The therapeutic options available in this regard include measures that: down-regulate serum free IGF-I; suppress the synthesis of mevalonic acid and/or certain derivatives thereof; modulate arachidonate metabolism by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase, 12-lipoxygenase, or COX-2; antagonize the activation of AP-1 transcription factors; promote the activation of PPAR-gamma transcription factors; and that suppress angiogenesis by additional mechanisms. Many of these measures appear suitable for use in cancer prevention.
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Affiliation(s)
- M F McCarty
- Pantox Laboratories, 4622 Santa Fe Street, San Diego, CA 92109, USA
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Hardman WE, Moyer MP, Cameron IL. Dietary fish oil sensitizes A549 lung xenografts to doxorubicin chemotherapy. Cancer Lett 2000; 151:145-51. [PMID: 10738108 DOI: 10.1016/s0304-3835(99)00396-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
A549 xenografts were allowed to grow in nude mice to about 5 mm in diameter, then diets were changed to modified AIN-76 diets containing 19% wt./wt. fish oil (FO) or 20% wt./wt. corn oil (CO). Ten days later dietary ferric citrate (0.3% wt./dry wt.) was added and doxoribicin (DOX) treatment (3.6 mg/kg i.v. each of the 5 days for 18 days) commenced. Treatment with DOX halted the growth of tumors in the CO fed mice. However, in those mice, which consumed FO or FO with ferric citrate, treatment with DOX caused significant tumor regression.
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Affiliation(s)
- W E Hardman
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, The University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA.
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Endrich B, Vaupel P. The Role of the Microcirculation in the Treatment of Malignant Tumors: Facts and Fiction. BLOOD PERFUSION AND MICROENVIRONMENT OF HUMAN TUMORS 2000. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-642-58813-6_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
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Mazza A, Casiglia E, Scarpa R, Sica E, Biasin R, Privato G, Pizziol A, Pessina AC. Cancer mortality trends in two cohorts of elderly people having different life-styles. Aging Clin Exp Res 1999. [DOI: 10.1007/bf03399632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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22
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McCarty MF. Polyphenol-mediated inhibition of AP-1 transactivating activity may slow cancer growth by impeding angiogenesis and tumor invasiveness. Med Hypotheses 1998; 50:511-4. [PMID: 9710326 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-9877(98)90273-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Certain polyphenols, capable of activating transcription via antioxidant response elements, potently induce Fra-1/Fra-2, thereby antagonizing the transactivating activity of AP-1 complexes. Since AP-1 is crucial to the induction of matrix proteases required for angiogenesis and tumor invasion, it is reasonable to suspect that adequate intakes of appropriate polyphenols would have utility in cancer therapy. Indeed, green tea polyphenols have reduced tumor growth rate and/or metastatic capacity in several animal studies. Additional measures for down-regulating AP-1 activity may include fish oil, heparin, and the drug LY290181. Down-regulation of AP-1 activity as a general therapeutic strategy merits further consideration.
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Abstract
It is increasingly clear that apoptosis plays a crucial role in the promotional phase of cancer development. Initiated pre-neoplastic clones in rat liver experience a high rate of apoptosis, and this rate has an important impact on the survival and growth of these clones. Suppression of apoptosis appears to be a universal property of cancer promoters, suggesting conversely that agents which inhibit cancer induction during the promotional phase increase the rate of apoptosis in initiated cells. Modulation of apoptosis is a likely explanation for recent striking evidence that use of calcium channel blockers substantially increases, whereas supplemental selenium substantially decreases, human cancer incidence. Non-genotoxic measures which are likely to upregulate apoptosis in pre-neoplastic/neoplastic cells--and thus may be useful in prevention and/or therapy--include selenium, retinoids/carotenoids, green tea polyphenols, caloric restriction, downregulation of IGF-I activity, high-dose tamoxifen and other protein kinase C antagonists, withdrawal or blockade of trophic hormones, isoflavones, limonene, vitamin D and cholecalciferol analogs, dietary fiber/sodium butyrate, hyperthermia, benzaldehyde derivatives, and creatine.
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Jiang WG, Bryce RP, Horrobin DF. Essential fatty acids: molecular and cellular basis of their anti-cancer action and clinical implications. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 1998; 27:179-209. [PMID: 9649932 DOI: 10.1016/s1040-8428(98)00003-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- W G Jiang
- University Department of Surgery, University of Wales College of Medicine, Cardiff, UK.
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McCarty MF. A central role for protein kinase C overactivity in diabetic glomerulosclerosis: implications for prevention with antioxidants, fish oil, and ACE inhibitors. Med Hypotheses 1998; 50:155-65. [PMID: 9572571 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-9877(98)90202-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The primary etiologic factor in diabetic glomerulosclerosis appears to be an overproduction of transforming growth factor-beta by mesangial cells, which in turn reflects a hyperglycemically mediated overactivation of protein kinase C (PKC) throughout the glomerulus. Membrane-active antioxidants, fish oil, and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors can act to down-regulate glomerular PKC activity, via a variety of mechanisms that may include activation of diacylglycerol kinase and suppression of phosphatidate phosphohydrolase, support of endothelial nitric oxide and heparan sulfate production, inhibition of thromboxane and angiotensin synthesis/activity, and correction of glomerular hypertension. The beneficial impact of these measures on vascular endothelial function may be of more general utility in the prevention of diabetic complications such as retinopathy, neuropathy, and atherosclerosis. Adjunctive use of gamma-linolenic acid is indicated for prevention of neuropathy, and it is conceivable that bioactive chromium will have protective activity not solely attributable to improved glycemic control. Re-establishing euglycemia must clearly remain the core strategy for preventing diabetic complications, but when glycemic control remains suboptimal, practical, safe measures are at hand for decreasing risk.
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McCarty MF. Thalidomide may impede cell migration in primates by down-regulating integrin beta-chains: potential therapeutic utility in solid malignancies, proliferative retinopathy, inflammatory disorders, neointimal hyperplasia, and osteoporosis. Med Hypotheses 1997; 49:123-31. [PMID: 9278924 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-9877(97)90217-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
A growing number of human inflammatory disorders are reported to respond to treatment with thalidomide, and recently this drug has been shown to inhibit angiogenesis in the rabbit, in doses which can elicit teratogenicity in this species. Studies in marmosets and humans indicate that thalidomide, and a teratogenic analogue, decrease the expression of beta integrin subunits, most notably beta 3 and the beta 2 produced by leukocytes. Since integrins are crucial for cell-matrix interactions, and the beta 2 integrins of leukocytes mediate adhesion to endothelium, it is reasonable to postulate that thalidomide inhibits cell migration in susceptible species, and that this accounts for its anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic, and teratogenic activity. This perspective suggests that thalidomide will show utility in the prevention or treatment of a wide range of disorders, including solid tumors, proliferative retinopathies, many inflammatory diseases, neointimal hyperplasia, and osteoporosis. It is likely that dietary fish oil-as well as selective inhibitors of urokinase, when and if they become clinically available-will complement the efficacy of thalidomide in most if not all of these applications.
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Abstract
Amphiregulin and transforming growth factor-alpha, agonists for the epidermal growth factor receptor, are the major autocrine growth factors for cultured keratinocytes, and their substantial overexpression in psoriatic lesions suggests that they are crucial to the basal hyperplasia that characterizes psoriasis. Amphiregulin binds to heparin and related highly sulfated polysaccharides, and exogenous heparin blocks its growth factor activity, rationalizing previous reports that psoriasis responds to heparin therapy. Differentiating keratinocytes produce increased amounts of protein-bound as well as free-chain heparan sulfates, which may function physiologically as amphiregulin antagonists. By promoting keratinocyte synthesis of these heparan sulfates, glucosamine administration may inhibit amphiregulin function and thus provide therapeutic benefit in psoriasis. Concurrent ingestion of fish oil, by impeding the excessive activation of protein kinase C, may decrease keratinocyte production of amphiregulin and other autocrine growth factors, thus complementing the postulated benefits of glucosamine.
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McCarty MF. Up-regulation of IGF binding protein-1 as an anticarcinogenic strategy: relevance to caloric restriction, exercise, and insulin sensitivity. Med Hypotheses 1997; 48:297-308. [PMID: 9160283 DOI: 10.1016/s0306-9877(97)90098-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The mitotic rate of stem cells is a major determinant of cancer risk. Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) are virtually obligate stimulants of cell turnover in nearly every tissue. IGF activity is subject to rapid modulation by hepatic release of IGF binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1), a factor whose synthesis is suppressed by insulin and increased by glucagon. Up-regulation of IGFBP-1 production can be expected to decrease IGF activity and thereby diminish cancer risk. Measures that sensitize peripheral tissues to insulin, and thereby down-regulate insulin secretion, can be expected to increase IGFBP-1 synthesis, provided that they do not unduly sensitize hepatocytes as well. Prolonged aerobic exercise and caloric restriction also increase IGFBP-1 production. Since IGF-1 suppresses hepatic synthesis of sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), down-regulation of IGF activity will increase SHBG levels and thus diminish the availability of free sex hormones--an effect that should further decrease cancer risk in sex hormone-responsive tissues. These considerations rationalize many findings in animal and epidemiologic studies, and suggest that non-diabetic insulin resistance may be a significant cancer risk factor. Increased IGF activity associated with insulin resistance may also promote benign hyperplasias-most notably atherosclerosis. Hyperinsulinemia stimulates intimal hyperplasia indirectly, via IGF.
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Abstract
Published clinical research, as well as various theoretical considerations, suggest that supplemental intakes of the 'metavitamins' taurine, coenzyme Q10, and L-carnitine, as well as of the minerals magnesium, potassium, and chromium, may be of therapeutic benefit in congestive heart failure. High intakes of fish oil may likewise be beneficial in this syndrome. Fish oil may decrease cardiac afterload by an antivasopressor action and by reducing blood viscosity, may reduce arrhythmic risk despite supporting the heart's beta-adrenergic responsiveness, may decrease fibrotic cardiac remodeling by impeding the action of angiotensin II and, in patients with coronary disease, may reduce the risk of atherothrombotic ischemic complications. Since the measures recommended here are nutritional and carry little if any toxic risk, there is no reason why their joint application should not be studied as a comprehensive nutritional therapy for congestive heart failure.
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Abstract
The fact that the cardiovascular risk of ex-smokers approximates that of non-smokers after two years of abstinence, implies that accelerated atherogenesis is not the chief mechanism of smoking-related heart disease. Indeed, smoking or nicotine have adverse effects on blood rheology, thrombotic risk, coronary blood flow, and risk for arrhythmias. Omega-3-rich fish oils can be expected to correct or compensate for a remarkable number of the adverse impacts of smoking/nicotine: increased plasma fibrinogen, decreased erythrocyte distensibility, increased plasma and blood viscosity, increased platelet aggregability, increased plasminogen activator inhibitor levels, vasoconstriction of the coronary bed, reduced fibrillation threshold, increased triglycerides, reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and increased production of superoxide by phagocytes. Smokers who cannot overcome their addiction should be encouraged to substitute nicotine aerosols/gum for tobacco and advised to use supplementary fish oil and other cardioprotective nutrients.
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