Diet and cancer

The Protective Potential of Butyrate against Colon Cancer Cell Migration and Invasion Is Critically Dependent on Cell Type

SCOPE

Short-chain fatty acids such as butyrate are produced through the fermentation of dietary fiber by colonic bacteria. Preclinical studies indicate an anticancer potential of butyrate, but clinical evidence shows greater variability. The study hypothesizes the effectiveness of butyrate on reducing colon cancer cell migration and invasion may vary due to the cell-type.

METHODS AND RESULTS

The study determines the efficacy of butyrate (0-4 mM) to inhibit cancer cell migration, invasion, and related signaling proteins in three distinct human colorectal cancer (CRC) cell lines: HCT116, HT-29, and Caco-2. Butyrate exhibits a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on cancer cell migration and invasion. This inhibitory potential on oncogenic focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and sarcoma (Src) proteins is greater in HCT116 cells (1.1 and 0.8-fold) and HT-29 cells (0.9 and 0.4-fold) compared to Caco-2 cells, respectively. Conversely, E-cadherin protein, a classical epithelial cell marker and potential tumor suppressor, is 2.3-fold greater in HCT116 cells than in HT-29 cells and Caco-2 cells. Moreover, survival analysis from a public cancer database demonstrates that CRC patients with high E-cadherin expression have a 13% greater 5-year survival rate than those with low expression.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, butyrate's anti-cancer efficacy on CRC cells varies depending on cell-type and is linked to the FAK/Src/E-cadherin pathway.

Steady-State Delivery and Chemical Modification of Food Nutrients to Improve Cancer Intervention Ability

Cancer is a crucial global health problem, and prevention is an important strategy to reduce the burden of the disease. Daily diet is the key modifiable risk factor for cancer, and an increasing body of evidence suggests that specific nutrients in foods may have a preventive effect against cancer. This review summarizes the current evidence on the role of nutrients from foods in cancer intervention. It discusses the potential mechanisms of action of various dietary components, including phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The findings of epidemiological and clinical studies on their association with cancer risk are highlighted. The foods are rich in bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, flavonoids, and ω-3 fatty acids, which have been proven to have anticancer properties. The effects of steady-state delivery and chemical modification of these food's bioactive components on anticancer and intervention are summarized. Future research should focus on identifying the specific bioactive compounds in foods responsible for their intervention effects and exploring the potential synergistic effects of combining different nutrients in foods. Dietary interventions that incorporate multiple nutrients and whole foods may hold promise for reducing the risk of cancer and improving overall health.

Breast Cancer Prevention: The Key Role of Population Screening, Breast Self-Examination (BSE) and Technological Tools. Survey of Italian Women

Breast cancer is the most common tumor among women worldwide and still remains the leading cause of death in women in Italy. Although survival from this pathology has increased, this disease and its treatment can have lasting or delayed effects that can greatly affect a woman's quality of life. Primary and secondary prevention are currently the best strategies to combat this cancer: improved lifestyle, early adherence to screening, Breast Self-Examination (BSE), and even now the use of technology, have become among the most important tools to ensure increasingly early diagnosis of this disease, which is a major cause of suffering and premature mortality in women. Indeed, early diagnosis of the disease can lead to a good prognosis and a high survival rate. This study investigates the attitude of Italian women to perform clinical checkups aimed at cancer prevention, particularly adherence to free screening programs offered by the National Health Service (NHS) for women in the 50-69 age group. The knowledge, use and emotional approach toward BSE as a screening tool and the use of dedicated apps for this purpose are also investigated. Low adherence to screening programs, lack of BSE practice, and nonuse of dedicated apps are just some of the results observed in this study. Therefore, it becomes essential to spread the culture of prevention, cancer awareness and the importance of screening throughout life.

Risk of pancreatic cancer in individuals with celiac disease in the United States: A population-based matched cohort study

BACKGROUND

Celiac disease (CD) has been associated with gastrointestinal malignancies. However, the magnitude of the risk of pancreatic cancer (PC) associated with CD is much less clear, and risks have not been estimated from large populations.

AIM

To assess the risk of PC in CD patients.

METHODS

We conducted a population-based, multicenter, propensity score-matched cohort study with consecutive patients diagnosed with CD using the TriNeTx research network platform. We examined the incidence of PC in patients with CD compared with a matched cohort of patients without CD (non-CD, controls). Each patient in the main group (CD) was matched to a patient in the control group using 1:1 propensity score matching to reduce confounding effects. The incidence of PC was estimated using a Cox proportional hazards model with a hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI).

RESULTS

A total of 389980 patients were included in this study. Among them, 155877 patients had a diagnosis of CD, and the remaining 234103 individuals without CD were considered a control cohort. The mean duration of follow-up for patients in the CD and control cohorts was 5.8 ± 1.8 and 5.9 ± 1.1 years, respectively. During the follow-up, 309 patients with CD developed PC, whereas 240 patients developed PC in the control group (HR = 1.29; 95%CI: 1.09-1.53). In the secondary analyses in the first year after diagnosis of CD, patients with CD were at a significant increase in risk for PC; 151 patients with CD had an incidence of PC compared with 96 incidences of PC among the patients in the non-CD control group (HR = 1.56; 95%CI: 1.20-2.01) and sensitivity analysis showed similar magnitude to the one generated in the primary and secondary analysis.

CONCLUSION

Patients with CD are at increased risk of PC. Risk elevation persists beyond the first year after diagnosis to reference individuals without CD from the general population.

Dietary Xenobiotics Derived from Food Processing: Association with Fecal Mutagenicity and Gut Mucosal Damage

Whereas the mechanisms underlying the association of toxic dietary xenobiotics and cancer risk are not well established, it is plausible that dietary pattern may affect the colon environment by enhancing or reducing exposure to mutagens. This work aimed to investigate the association between xenobiotics intake and different stages of intestinal mucosal damage and colorectal cancer (CRC) screening and examine whether these associations may be mediated by altered intestinal mutagenicity. This was a case control study with 37 control subjects, 49 patients diagnosed with intestinal polyps, and 7 diagnosed with CRC. Lifestyle, dietary, and clinical information was registered after colonoscopy. For xenobiotics intake estimation the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer (EPIC) and the Computerized Heterocyclic Amines Resource for Research in Epidemiology of Disease (CHARRED) databases were used. The mutagenicity of fecal supernatants was assayed by the Ames test and light microscopy was used for the presence of aberrant crypt formation. Among all the potential carcinogens studied, the polyp group showed higher intakes of ethanol and dibenzo (a) anthracene (DiB(a)A). Besides, intakes between 0.75 and 1.29 µg/d of total polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were related with a higher risk of belonging to the polyp group. On the contrary, an intake of wholegrain cereals greater than 50 g/d was associated with a reduction in the relative risk of belonging to the polyp group. Heterocyclic amines (HAs) such as 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo (4,5,b) pyridine (PhIP) were associated with an increased level of mutagenicity in polyps. This study is of great interest for the identification of possible therapeutic targets for the early prevention of colon cancer through diet.

Using ncRNAs as Tools in Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment-The Way towards Personalized Medicine to Improve Patients' Health

Although the first discovery of a non-coding RNA (ncRNA) dates back to 1958, only in recent years has the complexity of the transcriptome started to be elucidated. However, its components are still under investigation and their identification is one of the challenges that scientists are presently facing. In addition, their function is still far from being fully understood. The non-coding portion of the genome is indeed the largest, both quantitatively and qualitatively. A large fraction of these ncRNAs have a regulatory role either in coding mRNAs or in other ncRNAs, creating an intracellular network of crossed interactions (competing endogenous RNA networks, or ceRNET) that fine-tune the gene expression in both health and disease. The alteration of the equilibrium among such interactions can be enough to cause a transition from health to disease, but the opposite is equally true, leading to the possibility of intervening based on these mechanisms to cure human conditions. In this review, we summarize the present knowledge on these mechanisms, illustrating how they can be used for disease treatment, the current challenges and pitfalls, and the roles of environmental and lifestyle-related contributing factors, in addition to the ethical, legal, and social issues arising from their (improper) use.

Omega-6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Enhance Tumor Aggressiveness in Experimental Lung Cancer Model: Important Role of Oxylipins

Lung cancer is currently the leading cause of cancer death worldwide; it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage and bears poor prognosis. It has been shown that diet is an important environmental factor that contributes to the risk and mortality of several types of cancers. Intake of ω-3 and ω-6 PUFAs plays an important role in cancer risk and progression. Current Western populations have high consumption of ω-6 PUFAs with a ratio of ω-6/ω-3 PUFAs at 15:1 to 16.7:1 This high consumption of ω-6 PUFAs is related to increased cancer risk and progression. However, whether a diet rich in ω-6 PUFAs can contribute to tumor aggressiveness has not been well investigated. We used a murine model of pulmonary squamous cell carcinoma to study the aggressiveness of tumors in mice fed with a diet rich in ω-6 PUFAs and its relationship with oxylipins. Our results shown that the mice fed a diet rich in ω-6 showed a marked increase in proliferation, angiogenesis and pro-inflammatory markers and decreased expression of pro-apoptotic proteins in their tumors. Oxylipin profiling revealed an upregulation of various pro-tumoral oxylipins including PGs, HETEs, DiHETrEs and HODEs. These results demonstrate for the first time that high intake of ω-6 PUFAs in the diet enhances the malignancy of tumor cells by histological changes on tumor dedifferentiation and increases cell proliferation, angiogenesis, pro-inflammatory oxylipins and molecular aggressiveness targets such as NF-κB p65, YY1, COX-2 and TGF-β.

The association among calorie, macronutrient, and micronutrient intake with colorectal cancer: A case-control study

The risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) can be influenced by dietary components. This study aims to investigate the association between dietary intake and CRC in Iranian adults. This hospital‐based case–control study was performed on 160 patients with CRC and 320 healthy people. General and pathological data were collected through face‐to‐face interviews. A validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to assess the intake of calories, macronutrients, and micronutrients. The case group had a significantly higher intake of calories, carbohydrates, vitamin A, vitamin K, fluoride, and molybdenum and a lower intake of vitamin E, vitamin B1, beta carotene, biotin, folate, magnesium, selenium, manganese, and fiber (all p < .001). CRC was positively associated with the intake of carbohydrate (OR: 1.01, CI% 1.03–1.01, p = .001), and vitamin A (OR: 1.009, CI 95% 1.006–1.01, p = .001) and negatively associated with intake of fiber (OR: 0.67, CI 95% 0.59–0.76, p = .001), beta carotene (OR: 0.99, CI 95% 0.99–0.99, p = .001), vitamin E (OR: 0.27, CI 95% 0.15–0.47, p = .001), folate (OR: 0.98 CI 95% 0.97–0.98, p = .001), and biotin (OR: 0.83, CI 95% 0.77–0.90, p = .001). The associations remained significant after adjusting for age and sex. Further adjustments for physical activity, alcohol consumption, and smoking did not change the results. The results identified that the risk of colorectal cancer can be influenced by dietary intake. Further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm these findings and to identify the underlying mechanisms of the effects of dietary components on the risk of colorectal cancer.

Epidemiology of stomach cancer

Despite a decline in incidence and mortality during the last decades, stomach cancer is one of the main health challenges worldwide. According to the GLOBOCAN 2020 estimates, stomach cancer caused approximately 800000 deaths (accounting for 7.7% of all cancer deaths), and ranks as the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths in both genders combined. About 1.1 million new cases of stomach cancer were diagnosed in 2020 (accounting for 5.6% of all cancer cases). About 75% of all new cases and all deaths from stomach cancer are reported in Asia. Stomach cancer is one of the most lethal malignant tumors, with a five-year survival rate of around 20%. There are some well-established risk factors for stomach cancer: Helicobacter pylori infection, dietary factors, tobacco, obesity, and radiation. To date, the most important way of preventing stomach cancer is reduced exposure to risk factors, as well as screening and early detection. Further research on risk factors can help identify various opportunities for more effective prevention. Screening programs for stomach cancer have been implemented in a few countries, either as a national or opportunistic screening of high-risk individuals only. Generally, due to its high aggressiveness and heterogeneity, stomach cancer still remains a severe global health problem.

Hsa_circ_0050102 regulates the pancreatic cancer development via miR‐218‐5p/PPME1 axis

Background

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a malignancy worldwide. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) affects the growth of PC, nonetheless the mechanism is blurry. Here, we reconnoitered the parts of hsa_circ_0050102 in PC.

Methods

Hsa_circ_0050102, microRNA‐218‐5p (miR‐218‐5p) and protein phosphatase methylesterase 1 (PPME1) abundances were indicated by quantitative RT‐PCR or Western blot. Moreover, the cell functions were uncovered. Additionally, the relation of miR‐218‐5p and hsa_circ_0050102 or PPME1 was identified by dual‐luciferase reporter assay. Ultimately, the mice teats were utilized to quantity the part of hsa_circ_0050102.

Results

Hsa_circ_0050102 and PPME1 contents were increased, and the miR‐218‐5p was dwindled in PC. Hsa_circ_0050102 lack subdued cell vitality, colony formation, cell migration and invasion, and angiogenesis, but endorsed cell apoptosis in PC cells. Furthermore, miR‐218‐5p was established to block the development of PC cells via PPME1. Hsa_circ_0050102 bound to miR‐218‐5p to adjust the content of PPME1.

Conclusion

Hsa_circ_0050102 expedited the expansion of PC through growing PPME1 abundance by adjusting miR‐218‐5p.

Association between dried fruit intake and pan-cancers incidence risk: A two-sample Mendelian randomization study

Background

Observational studies have revealed that dried fruit intake may be associated with cancer incidence; however, confounding factors make the results prone to be disturbed. Therefore, we conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study to explore the causal relationship between dried fruit intake and 11 site-specific cancers.

Materials and methods

Forty-three single nucleoside polymers (SNPs) with robust genome-wide association study (GWAS) evidence, strongly correlated with dried fruit intake, were used as instrumental variables (IVs) in this study. The summary-level genetic datasets of site-specific cancers were obtained from the Oncoarray oral cavity and oropharyngeal cancer consortium, International Lung Cancer Consortium, Breast Cancer Association Consortium (BCAC), Ovarian Cancer Association Consortium, PanScan1, and GWAS of other scholars. We analyzed the causality between dried fruit intake and 11 site-specific cancers using the inverse-variance-weighted (IVW) and weighted median (WM) methods. For the results of the MR analysis, Cochran's Q test was used to check for heterogeneity, and multiplicative random effects were used to evaluate the heterogeneity further. Gene pleiotropy was tested using MR-Egger regression and MR-PRESSO methods. In addition, the main results of this study were validated by using the summary statistical data from the FinnGen and UK Biobank databases, and adjusted body mass index (BMI), years of education, fresh fruit intake, and vitamin C using multivariable MR analysis to ensure the stability of the research results.

Results

The evidence from IVW analyses showed that each increase of dried fruit intake by one standard deviation was statistically significantly associated with 82.68% decrease of oral cavity/pharyngeal cancer incidence risk (P = 0.0131), 67.01% decrease of lung cancer incidence risk (P = 0.0011), 77% decrease of squamous cell lung cancer incidence risk (P = 0.0026), 53.07% decrease of breast cancer incidence risk (P = 4.62 × 10^-5), 39.72% decrease of ovarian cancer incidence risk (P = 0.0183), 97.26% decrease of pancreatic cancer incidence risk (P = 0.0280), 0.53% decrease of cervical cancer incidence risk (P = 0.0482); however, there was no significant effect on lung adenocarcinoma (P = 0.4343), endometrial cancer (P = 0.8742), thyroid cancer (P = 0.6352), prostate cancer (P = 0.5354), bladder cancer (P = 0.8996), and brain cancer (P = 0.8164). In the validation part of the study results, the causal relationship between dried fruit intake and lung cancer (P = 0.0043), squamous cell lung cancer (P = 0.0136), and breast cancer (P = 0.0192) was determined. After adjusting for the potential impact of confounders, the causal relationship between dried fruit intake and lung cancer (P = 0.0034), squamous cell lung cancer (P = 0.046), and breast cancer (P = 0.0001) remained. The sensitivity analysis showed that our results were stable and reliable.

Conclusion

The intake of dried fruits may have a protective effect against some site-specific cancers. Therefore, health education and a reasonable adjustment of dietary proportions may help in the primary prevention of cancer.

Flight attendant occupational nutrition and lifestyle factors associated with COVID-19 incidence

In the era of COVID-19, essential workers are plagued with unforeseen and obfuscated challenges. Flight attendants are a unique subgroup of essential workers who face a multitude of health risks attributed to occupational exposures that are accentuated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Such risks can be ameliorated with strategies that target factors which enhance COVID-19 risk, including modifiable factors of diet and lifestyle. The aim of this cross-sectional study is to detect occupational dietary and lifestyle factors which could increase COVID-19 incidence amongst flight attendants. To identify potential risk factors, a questionnaire was administered to eighty-four flight attendants and examined the participants’ diet and lifestyle, and COVID-19 incidence. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression indicated that the participants’ perceived dietary quality at work (p = 0.003), sleep disruptions which impacted their consumption of a healthy diet (p = 0.013), job tenure (OR: 0.67, 95% CI: 0.46:0.98) and frequency of reported cold/flu (OR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.014–2.189) were all factors associated with confirmed/suspected COVID-19 incidence. This study also revealed that a lack of infrastructure for food storage and time limitations are considerable occupational barriers for flight attendants to consume healthy foods. Additional investigation can further elucidate these relationships and related solutions to mitigate COVID-19 risk in the future.

Global, regional, and national survey on the burden and quality of care of pancreatic cancer: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease study 1990-2017

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is among the most lethal cancers worldwide, and the quality of care provided to PC patients is a vital public health concern. We aimed to investigate the quality of care of PC globally and to report its current burden.

METHODS

The Quality of Care Index (QCI) was achieved by performing a Principal Component Analysis utilizing the results of the GBD study 2017. The QCI was defined as a range between 0 and 100, in which higher QCIs show higher quality of care. Possible gender- and age-related inequalities in terms of QCI were explored based on WHO world regions and the sociodemographic index (SDI).

RESULTS

In 2017, Japan had the highest QCI among all countries (QCI = 99/100), followed by Australia (QCI = 83/100) and the United States (QCI = 76/100). In Japan and Australia, males and females had almost the same QCIs in 2017, while in the United States, females had lower QCIs than males. In contrast to these high-QCI nations, African countries had the lowest QCIs in 2017. Besides, QCI increased by SDI, and high-SDI regions had the highest QCIs. Regarding patients' age, elderly cases had higher QCIs than younger patients globally and in high-SDI regions.

CONCLUSION

This study provides clinicians and health authorities with a wider vision around the quality of care of PC worldwide and highlights the existing disparities. This could help them investigate possible effective strategies to improve the quality of care in regions with lower QCIs and higher gender- and age-related inequities.

N-Terminal Pro-Brain Natriuretic Peptide Plasma Levels Are Associated with Intermediate-Term Follow-Up Cancer in Coronary Patients

N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) plasma levels are increased in patients with cancer. In this paper, we test whether NT-proBNP may identify patients who are going to receive a future cancer diagnosis (CD) in the intermediate-term follow-up. We studied 962 patients with stable coronary artery disease and free of cancer and heart failure at baseline. This sample represents a re-analysis of a previous work expanding the sample size and the follow-up. NT-proBNP, galectin-3, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hsTnI), and calcidiol (vitamin D) plasma levels were assessed. The primary outcome was new CD. After 5.40 (2.81–6.94) years of follow-up, 59 patients received a CD. NT-proBNP [HR 1.036 CI (1.015–1.056) per increase in 100 pg/mL; p = 0.001], previous atrial fibrillation (HR 3.140 CI (1.196–8.243); p = 0.020), and absence of previous heart failure (HR 0.067 CI (0.006–0.802); p = 0.033) were independent predictors of receiving a CD in the first three years of follow-up. None of the variables analyzed predicted a CD beyond this time. The number of patients developing heart failure during follow-up was 0 (0.0%) in patients receiving CD in the first three years of follow-up, 2 (6.9%) in those receiving a CD diagnosis beyond this time, and 40 (4.4%) in patients not developing cancer (p = 0.216). These numbers suggest that future heart failure was not a confounding factor. In patients with coronary artery disease, NT-proBNP was an independent predictor of CD in the first three years of follow-up but not later, suggesting that it could be detecting subclinical undiagnosed cancers.

Gene-by-environment modulation of lifespan and weight gain in the murine BXD family

How lifespan and body weight vary as a function of diet and genetic differences is not well understood. Here we quantify the impact of differences in diet on lifespan in a genetically diverse family of female mice, split into matched isogenic cohorts fed a low-fat chow diet (CD, n = 663) or a high-fat diet (HFD, n = 685). We further generate key metabolic data in a parallel cohort euthanized at four time points. HFD feeding shortens lifespan by 12%: equivalent to a decade in humans. Initial body weight and early weight gains account for longevity differences of roughly 4-6 days per gram. At 500 days, animals on a HFD typically gain four times as much weight as control, but variation in weight gain does not correlate with lifespan. Classic serum metabolites, often regarded as health biomarkers, are not necessarily strong predictors of longevity. Our data indicate that responses to a HFD are substantially modulated by gene-by-environment interactions, highlighting the importance of genetic variation in making accurate individualized dietary recommendations.

The Interaction Between the Microbiome and Tumors

Cancer is a significant global health problem and is characterized by a consistent increase in incidence and mortality rate. Deciphering the etiology and risk factors are essential parts of cancer research. Recently, the altered microbiome has been identified within the tumor microenvironment, tumor tissue, and even nonadjacent environments, which indicates a strong correlation between the microbiome and tumor development. However, the causation and mechanisms of this correlation remain unclear. Herein, we summarized and discussed the interaction between the microbiome and tumor progression. Firstly, the microbiome, which can be located in the tumor microenvironment, inside tumor tissues and in the nonadjacent environment, is different between cancer patients and healthy individuals. Secondly, the tumor can remodel microbial profiles by creating a more beneficial condition for the shifted microbiome. Third, the microbiome can promote tumorigenesis through a direct pathogenic process, including the establishment of an inflammatory environment and its effect on host immunity. The interactions between the microbiome and tumors can promote an understanding of the carcinogenesis and provide novel therapeutic strategies for cancers.

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) and the management of pancreatic cancer

Pancreatic cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality in western countries. Early diagnosis of pancreatic cancers plays a key role in the management by identification of patients who are surgical candidates. The advancement in the radiological imaging and interventional endoscopy (including endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography and endoscopic enteral stenting techniques) has a significant impact in the diagnostic evaluation, staging and treatment of pancreatic cancer. The multidisciplinary involvement of radiology, gastroenterology, medical oncology and surgical oncology is central to the management of patients with pancreatic cancers. This review aims to highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic role of EUS in the management of patients with pancreatic malignancy, especially pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

The dietary carcinogen PhIP activates p53-dependent DNA damage response in the colon of CYP1A-humanized mice

Species differences in the metabolism of xenobiotics by cytochrome P450 are critical in evaluating the use of experimental animals in studying toxic compounds relevant to human diseases. 2-Amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine (PhIP), which is produced by high-temperature cooking of fish and meat, is activated to become a carcinogen by cytochrome P4501A2 (CYP1A2) through N² -hydroxylation in humans, but is detoxified by Cyp1a2 through 4'-hydroxylation in mice. CYP1A-humanized (hCYP1A) mice, in which mouse Cyp1a is replaced with human CYP1A, show constitutive human xenobiotic metabolism by hCYP1A, thereby serving as a suitable model for studying PhIP. Previous studies have demonstrated that oral administration of PhIP induces colon tumors in hCYP1A mice; however, these studies used a super-high dose, raising concerns regarding the relevance of the mechanism to human cancer. Herein, we systematically investigated PhIP-induced colon carcinogenesis in hCYP1A mice treated with lower doses. We found that a dose 2000 times lower than that used previously, which is comparable to human daily intake levels, could induce colon tumors, albeit at a lower incidence rate. We further investigated the transcriptome changes in the colon of hCYP1A mice treated with PhIP and identified that PhIP treatment increased the expression of Bax, Btg2, Ccng1, Cdkn1a, and Trp53inp1 and decreased the expression of Igf1 and Ccnd1. Since these genes are key components of the p53-dependent DNA damage response, the altered expression patterns indicated PhIP-induced DNA damage in hCYP1A mice. Together, these results prove that hCYP1A mice are suitable for studying PhIP-induced carcinogenesis and show that PhIP is an important colorectal cancer carcinogen in human diet.

Pancreatic adenocarcinoma: A review of recent paradigms and advances in epidemiology, clinical diagnosis and management

Pancreatic cancer is one of the dreaded malignancies for both the patient and the clinician. The five-year survival rate of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDA) is as low as 2% despite multimodality treatment even in the best hands. As per the Global Cancer Observatory of the International Agency for Research in Cancer estimates of pancreatic cancer, by 2040, a 61.7% increase is expected in the total number of cases globally. With the widespread availability of next-generation sequencing, the entire genome of the tumors is being sequenced regularly, providing insight into their pathogenesis. As invasive PDA arises from pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia and mucinous neoplasm and intraductal papillary neoplasm, screening for them can be beneficial as the disease is curable with resection at an early stage. Routine preoperative biliary drainage has no role in patients suffering from PDA with obstructive jaundice. If performed, metallic stents are preferred over plastic ones. Minimally invasive procedures are preferred to open procedures as they have less morbidity. The duct-to-mucosa technique for pancreaticojejunostomy is presently widely practiced. The role of intraperitoneal drains after surgery for PDA is controversial. Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy has been proven to have a significant role both in locally advanced as well as in resectable PDA. Many new regimens and drugs have been added in the arsenal of chemoradiotherapy for metastatic disease. The roles of immunotherapy and gene therapy in PDA are being investigated. This review article is intended to improve the understanding of the readers with respect to the latest updates of PDA, which may help to trigger new research ideas and make better management decisions.

Prognostic Value and Molecular Mechanisms of Proteasome 26S Subunit, Non-ATPase Family Genes for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma Patients after Pancreaticoduodenectomy

Objective: Pancreatic cancer (PC) is an extremely malignant tumor with similar morbidity and mortality and lack of an effective treatment. This study explored the prognostic value and molecular mechanisms of proteasome 26S subunit, non-ATPase (PSMD) family genes in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).Methods: Survival analyses were performed to elucidate the relationship between prognosis and the level of PSMD expression. ROC curves and nomograms were constructed to predict the prognosis. A bioinformatics analysis was used to explore the co-expression and complex interaction networks of PSMDs. The potential mechanisms were further explored via gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA).Results: We find high levels of PSMD6, PSMD9, PSMD11, and PSMD14 expression were significantly associated with a poorer OS. High PSMD6 and PSMD11 expression was associated with a poorer relapse-free survival (RFS). A risk score model was constructed based on prognosis-related genes. The area under ROC curves (AUC) was 53.3%, 59.3%, and 62.9% for 1-, 2-, 3 years, respectively.Conclusion: GSEA revealed that PSMD6 and PSMD11 play a role in PDAC through various biological processes and signaling pathways, including TP53, CDKN2A, MYC pathway, DNA repair, KRAS, cell cycle checkpoint, NIK, NF-κB signaling pathway, and proteasomes. This study demonstrated that PSMD6 and PSMD11 could serve as a potential prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers for patients with early-stage PDAC after pancreaticoduodenectomy.

The Effect of Smoking on the Number and Type of Rectal Aberrant Crypt Foci (ACF)-First Identifiable Precursors of Colorectal Cancer (CRC)

Background: The problem of smoking and its influence on the occurrence of precursors and advanced colorectal cancer is often discussed in the medical literature. Tobacco smoke can provide a non-nutritional source of polycyclic hydrocarbons and other substances which, when combined with an incorrect diet, may play a role in promoting carcinogenesis at the level of the genetic control mechanism. The aim of our study was to assess the effect of smoking on the frequency and type of aberrant crypt foci (ACF) in the rectum and polyps in the large intestine in people who smoke more than 20 cigarettes a day for more than 20 years. Methods and Findings: A colonoscopy combined with rectal mucosa staining with 0.25% methylene blue was performed in 131 patients. Each of the study participants gave informed consent to participate in the study. Three bioptates were collected from the foci defined macroscopically as ACF; in cases where there were fewer foci, the number of collected foci was respectively lower. On the colonoscopy day, patients completed the questionnaire regarding epidemiological data used for analysis of factors affecting the occurrence of ACF in the study group. The number of ACF in the colon was divided into three groups: −ACF < 5, 5 < ACF < 10, ACF > 10. In the statistical analysis, numerical data were presented and real numbers, range of arrhythmic means, mean standard deviation, and results of probability distribution. The Student’s test, U test, and chi2 were applied in order to determine the significance of differences of means and frequency of events in both groups. The level of significance was set at α = 0.05. Statistica 7.1 and Excel 2010 were used. Most smokers are in the age groups between 51–70 years. In the youngest (31–40 years), single ACF appear first (ACF <5) ACF in the number of 5–10 appear a little later (around 50 years of age) and dynamically increase, reaching a maximum at the age of 60–65.ACF in the number >10 appear at the latest age (55 years old) and their number gradually increases with age (linear growth). The probability of occurrence of ACF in all groups is greater in smokers, and the difference for the ACF group 5-10 and ACF >10 is statistically significant with a significance level of p < 0.05. Apart from ACF normal, all types of ACF are more likely in this group than in non-smokers and these differences are statistically significant with p < 0.05. Conclusions: Smoking has a significant impact on the number and type of rectal ACF. Smokers have a greater number of ACFs in the rectum than non-smokers, and the most common type is hyperplastic ACF. Smokers are more likely to develop polyps in all sections of the colon compared to non-smokers.

Reactive extraction: a promising approach to separate protocatechuic acid

3,4-Dihydroxybenzoic acid, commonly known as protocatechuic acid, is a naturally occurring phenolic compound, being the active component of many medicinal and edible plants. The in vitro and in vivo studies of protocatechuic acid conclude that it possesses many pharmacological properties. Protocatechuic acid, present in waste streams of food processing industries, is considered a phenolic pollutant. Owing to its bactericidal properties and in order to maintain the standards of disposal, its removal from the waste streams is necessary. Protocatechuic acid finds applications also in bioplastics, polymers, and also bio-based active films to improve food preservation. Its direct extraction from plant secondary metabolites possesses many difficulties. Recently reports of protocatechuic acid production by several Bacillus species are present in literature. For the retrieval/removal of protocatechuic acid from aqueous streams, methods like adsorption, O₃/UV or H₂O₂/UV, and microbial degradation are in practice. For the retrieval of carboxylic acid from fermentation broths and aqueous streams, reactive extraction by the use of specific extractants has been found to be a most suitable method owing to its several advantages. The present paper is focused on the separation of protocatechuic acid by reactive extraction as a promising approach. The parameters needed for the design such as distribution coefficient, water co-extraction, physical and chemical extraction, effect of initial acid concentration, diluents, extractant, and extractant concentration have been discussed.

The Influence of Lycopene, [6]-Gingerol, and Silymarin on the Apoptosis on U-118MG Glioblastoma Cells In Vitro Model

BACKGROUND

Lycopene, gingerol, and silymarin have a potential anticancer activity in many types of neoplasms. Healthy lifestyle and proper diet are associated with a reduced risk of cancer and other diseases. Increasingly, clinical research focuses on the mechanisms of action of natural compounds and their impact on the development of cancer. The aim of the present study was to determine the effect of lycopene, gingerol, and silymarin on apoptosis, mitochondrial potential and caspase-3/7 activity in the U118-MG cell line.

METHODS

Human glioblastoma cells were incubated with lycopene, [6]-gingerol, and silymarin for 24 and 48 h. Apoptosis was monitored using the Annexin V labelling, caspase-3/7 activity, and early hallmark of apoptosis were determined with mitochondrial membrane potential changes.

RESULTS

Our data showed a significant decrease in the viability glioblastoma cells U118-MG after 48 h treatment with lycopene, [6]-gingerol, and silymarin.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data could confirm the stimulative effects of used compounds on apoptosis and changes in mitochondrial potential in a dose-dependent manner.

Caveats for the Good and Bad of Dietary Red Meat

Red meat and its constituents of heme iron or free iron have been the target of scrutiny related to their purported association to many chronic diseases. However, in contrast, red meat provides a rich source of nutrition. In 2007, Al Tappel hypothesized that the mechanistic explanation for the adverse impact of iron and heme iron could be the strong influence these substances have in initiating and promoting oxidative stress. Also, there is an emphasis on the importance of dietary antioxidants in the modulation of these adverse effects. The goal of this argumentative review is to provide an update of the importance of dietary red meat for health, and the hypothesis that oxidative stress initiated by dietary iron and heme iron may be related to chronic diseases, with a particular emphasis on recent research that impacts the paradigm. We also examine potential dietary changes that could substantially modify the potential adverse outcomes of chronic diseases initiated by heme iron mechanisms, e.g., consumption of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables.

Association of MTHFR gene polymorphisms with pancreatic cancer: meta-analysis of 17 case-control studies

BACKGROUND

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is a seriously malignant tumor with a low 5-year survival rate. The relationship between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene polymorphisms and PC has been reported by several studies. However, the results were controversial. Thus, we conducted a meta-analysis to summarize available data on MTHFR gene and PC.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Wanfang, CNKI databases prior to July 2019. Data were analyzed by RevMan 5.3 and STATA 12.0 software. Odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to evaluate the strength of the association. Subgroup analysis, sensitivity analysis and assessment of publication bias were performed in this study.

RESULTS

Ten articles with 17 reports (10 for C677T, 7 for A1298C) were eligible for inclusion in the meta-analysis (1864 cases and 3165 controls for C677T, and 1488 cases and 1946 controls for A1298C). Our meta-analysis detected that C677T was associated with PC for three genetic models (allele model: OR = 1.24, 95% CI: 1.00-1.53, P = 0.047; recessive model: OR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.04-1.86, P = 0.027; homozygous model: OR = 1.60, 95% CI: 1.04-2.45, P = 0.034). In the stratified analyses according to ethnicity, source of controls and genotyping method, significant association was observed in genotyping method subgroup. For the A1298C polymorphism, no significant association was observed either in overall analysis or in subgroup analysis under all genetic models.

CONCLUSIONS

MTHFR gene C677T rather than A1298C polymorphism may be associated with PC. Larger sample size studies should be performed to find the association between MTHFR gene and PC.

From the Table to the Tumor: The Role of Mediterranean and Western Dietary Patterns in Shifting Microbial-Mediated Signaling to Impact Breast Cancer Risk

Diet is a modifiable component of lifestyle that could influence breast cancer development. The Mediterranean dietary pattern is considered one of the healthiest of all dietary patterns. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet protects against diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Reported consumption of a Mediterranean diet pattern was associated with lower breast cancer risk for women with all subtypes of breast cancer, and a Western diet pattern was associated with greater risk. In this review, we contrast the available epidemiological breast cancer data, comparing the impact of consuming a Mediterranean diet to the Western diet. Furthermore, we will review the preclinical data highlighting the anticancer molecular mechanism of Mediterranean diet consumption in both cancer prevention and therapeutic outcomes. Diet composition is a major constituent shaping the gut microbiome. Distinct patterns of gut microbiota composition are associated with the habitual consumption of animal fats, high-fiber diets, and vegetable-based diets. We will review the impact of Mediterranean diet on the gut microbiome and inflammation. Outside of the gut, we recently demonstrated that Mediterranean diet consumption led to distinct microbiota shifts in the mammary gland tissue, suggesting possible anticancer effects by diet on breast-specific microbiome. Taken together, these data support the anti-breast-cancer impact of Mediterranean diet consumption.

Interleukin-6 selectively induces drug metabolism to potentiate the genotoxicity of dietary carcinogens in mammary cells

Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy in females, the etiology being multifactorial and includes the role of lifestyle exposure to DNA-damaging chemicals such as dietary carcinogens benzo (a) pyrene (BaP) and 2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo [4, 5-b] pyridine (PhIP). Both compounds require cytochrome P450 (CYP)-mediated metabolic activation to DNA-damaging species, and both induce transcriptional responses through the nuclear receptors Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and estrogen receptor α (ERα). BaP and PhIP are mammary carcinogens in rodents. Clinically, circulating IL-6 expression is linked with poor prognosis of cancer and 35% of the deaths in breast cancer are linked with inflammation. The objective of this work was to investigate the molecular toxicology and local activation of BaP and PhIP in the presence of IL-6. Our laboratory has previously reported that miR27b can regulate CYP1B1 expression in colorectal cells, here we have investigated if this mechanism is working in mammary cell models, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Treatment (24 h) of cells with BaP (10 nM-10 µM) and PhIP (100 nM-100 µM) significantly induced genetic damage (micronuclei formation) in a dose-dependent manner in both cell lines. This effect was potentiated in the presence of human IL-6 at concentrations reported to be expressed in clinical breast cancer. On its own, IL-6 treatment failed to induce micronuclei frequency above the control levels in these cells. Compared to BaP or PhIP treatment alone, IL-6 plus BaP or PhIP selectively induced CYP1B1 significantly in both cell lines. Additionally, miR27b expression was downregulated by IL-6 treatments and transfection with miR27b inhibitor confirmed that miR27b is a regulator of CYP1B1 in both cell lines. These data show that BaP- and PhIP-induced DNA damage in mammary cells is potentiated by the inflammatory cytokine IL-6 and that inflammation-induced CYP expression, specifically CYP1B1 via miR27b, is responsible for this effect.

Dietary Inflammatory Index and Risk of Breast Cancer Based on Hormone Receptor Status: A Case-Control Study in Korea

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women globally, and the risk of developing breast cancer is associated with inflammation. The present study aimed to examine the association between the Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII^®) and breast cancer in Korean women and investigate whether the tumor’s hormone receptor status affects this association. In this case-control study, we enrolled 364 breast cancer patients and 364 age-matched controls. DII scores were calculated from dietary intake evaluated by a 106-item food frequency questionnaire. The DII score was significantly higher in cases than in controls. After adjusting for potential confounders, the odds ratio (OR) of breast cancer was higher in the highest DII tertile (OR = 3.68, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.34–5.80, p for trend < 0.0001) than in the lowest tertile. We found that higher DII scores were related to an increased risk of breast cancer for estrogen receptor (ER)+/progesterone receptor (PR)+ tumors regardless of menopausal status (OR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.37–4.88 in the highest DII category, p for trend = 0.01 for premenopausal women; OR = 11.00, 95% CI: 2.93–41.30 in the highest DII category, p for trend = 0.0004 for postmenopausal women), but not for ER−/PR− status. Our results suggested that the DII scores are positively associated with breast cancer risk in Korean women and that this relationship is more robust in ER+/PR+ tumors.

Extraction, Chemical Composition, and Anticancer Potential of Origanum onites L. Essential Oil

Origanum species are plants rich in volatile oils that are mainly used for culinary purposes. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the biological activities of their essential oils. Origanum onites L. is a plant mainly found in Greece, Turkey, and Sicily, whose oil is rich in carvacrol, a highly bioactive phytochemical. The aim of this study was to analyze the chemical composition of Origanum onites essential oil (OOEO), and investigate its potential anticancer effects in vitro and in vivo. GC/MS analysis identified carvacrol as OOEO's main constituent. In vitro antiproliferative activity was assayed with the sulforhodamine B (SRB) assay against human cancer cell lines from four tumor types. HT-29, a colorectal cancer cell line, was the most sensitive to the antiproliferative activity of OOEO. Wound-healing assay and Annexin V-PI staining were employed to investigate the antimigratory and the pro-apoptotic potential of OOEO, respectively, against human (HT-29) and murine (CT26) colon cancer cells. Notably, OOEO attenuated migration and induced apoptosis-related morphological changes in both cell lines. Prophylactic oral administration of the oil in a BALB/c experimental mouse model inhibited the growth of syngeneic CT26 colon tumors. As far as we know, this is the first report on the antitumor potential of orally administered OOEO.

Association of Dietary Intake Ratio of n-3/n-6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids with Breast Cancer Risk in Western and Asian Countries: A Meta-Analysis

Objective:

This systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to determine association of dietary intake ratio of n-3/n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids with breast cancer risk in Western and Asian countries.

Methods:

The authors conducted a meta-analysis of published research articles on association of dietary intake ratio of n-3/n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) with breast cancer risk in Western and Asian countries published between January 2000 and February 2019 in online article databases of PubMed, ProQuest and EBSCO. Pooled risk ratios (RR) were calculated using fixed and random-effect models. Publication bias was visually evaluated by performing funnel plots and statistically assessed by Egger’s and Begg’s tests. Data were processed by using Stata version 14.2 (Stata Corporation).

Results:

This study reviewed 913 articles. There were 13 studies included in systematic review continued by meta-analysis of relevant data with total number of samples: 275,264 patients. The results showed dietary intake ratio of n-3/n-6 PUFAs with breast cancer risk in Western and Asian countries (RR = 0.99; 95%CI: 0.92-1.07). Dietary intake ratio of n-3/n-6 PUFAs with breast cancer risk in Western countries reached (RR = 0.98; 95%CI: 0.91-1.06) and there was any significant publication bias for studies included. Dietary intake ratio of n-3/n-6 PUFAs with breast cancer risk in Asian countries reached (RR = 1.18; 95%CI: 0.94-1.47) and there was not any significant publication bias for studies included.

Conclusion:

This analysis confirmed association of dietary intake ratio of n-3/n-6 PUFAs with breast cancer risk in Western and Asian countries. Higher dietary intake ratio is associated with lower risk of breast cancer in Asian countries rather than Western countries. This study suggests increasing dietary intake ratio n-3/n-6 PUFAs will provide benefit for breast cancer prevention.

Flaxseed Lignans as Important Dietary Polyphenols for Cancer Prevention and Treatment: Chemistry, Pharmacokinetics, and Molecular Targets

Cancer causes considerable morbidity and mortality across the world. Socioeconomic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contribute to the increasing cancer prevalence, bespeaking a need for effective prevention and treatment strategies. Phytochemicals like plant polyphenols are generally considered to have anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antimicrobial, and immunomodulatory effects, which explain their promotion for human health. The past several decades have contributed to a growing evidence base in the literature that demonstrate ability of polyphenols to modulate multiple targets of carcinogenesis linking models of cancer characteristics (i.e., hallmarks and nutraceutical-based targeting of cancer) via direct or indirect interaction or modulation of cellular and molecular targets. This evidence is particularly relevant for the lignans, an ubiquitous, important class of dietary polyphenols present in high levels in food sources such as flaxseed. Literature evidence on lignans suggests potential benefit in cancer prevention and treatment. This review summarizes the relevant chemical and pharmacokinetic properties of dietary polyphenols and specifically focuses on the biological targets of flaxseed lignans. The consolidation of the considerable body of data on the diverse targets of the lignans will aid continued research into their potential for use in combination with other cancer chemotherapies, utilizing flaxseed lignan-enriched natural products.

TAMing pancreatic cancer: combat with a double edged sword

Among all the deadly cancers, pancreatic cancer ranks seventh in mortality. The absence of any grave symptoms coupled with the unavailability of early prognostic and diagnostic markers make the disease incurable in most of the cases. This leads to a late diagnosis, where the disease would have aggravated and thus, incurable. Only around 20% of the cases present the early disease diagnosis. Surgical resection is the prime option available for curative local disease but in the case of advanced cancer, chemotherapy is the standard treatment modality although the patients end up with drug resistance and severe side effects. Desmoplasia plays a very important role in chemoresistance associated with pancreatic cancer and consists of a thick scar tissue around the tumor comprised of different cell populations. The interplay between this heterogenous population in the tumor microenvironment results in sustained tumor growth and metastasis. Accumulating evidences expose the crucial role played by the tumor-associated macrophages in pancreatic cancer and this review briefly presents the origin from their parent lineage and the importance in maintaining tumor hallmarks. Finally we have tried to address their role in imparting chemoresistance and the therapeutic interventions leading to reduced tumor burden.

Epidemiology of Pancreatic Cancer: Global Trends, Etiology and Risk Factors

Pancreatic cancer is the seventh leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. However, its toll is higher in more developed countries. Reasons for vast differences in mortality rates of pancreatic cancer are not completely clear yet, but it may be due to lack of appropriate diagnosis, treatment and cataloging of cancer cases. Because patients seldom exhibit symptoms until an advanced stage of the disease, pancreatic cancer remains one of the most lethal malignant neoplasms that caused 432,242 new deaths in 2018 (GLOBOCAN 2018 estimates). Globally, 458,918 new cases of pancreatic cancer have been reported in 2018, and 355,317 new cases are estimated to occur until 2040. Despite advancements in the detection and management of pancreatic cancer, the 5-year survival rate still stands at 9% only. To date, the causes of pancreatic carcinoma are still insufficiently known, although certain risk factors have been identified, such as tobacco smoking, diabetes mellitus, obesity, dietary factors, alcohol abuse, age, ethnicity, family history and genetic factors, Helicobacter pylori infection, non-O blood group and chronic pancreatitis. In general population, screening of large groups is not considered useful to detect the disease at its early stage, although newer techniques and the screening of tightly targeted groups (especially of those with family history), are being evaluated. Primary prevention is considered of utmost importance. Up-to-date statistics on pancreatic cancer occurrence and outcome along with a better understanding of the etiology and identifying the causative risk factors are essential for the primary prevention of this disease.

n-6 Linoleic Acid Induces Epigenetics Alterations Associated with Colonic Inflammation and Cancer

The farnesoid-X-receptor (FXR) protects against inflammation and cancer of the colon through maintenance of intestinal bile acid (BA) homeostasis. Conversely, higher levels of BA and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) are risk factors for inflammation and cancer of the colon. In the United States, n-6 linoleic acid (LA) is the most commonly used dietary vegetable fat. Metabolism of n-6 fatty acids has been linked to a higher risk of intestinal cancer. The objectives of this study were to investigate in colonic mucosa the effects of a high-fat diet rich in LA (n-6HFD) on CpG methylation of Fxr and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase-2 (Ptsg-2) genes, and the impact on the expression of tumor suppressor adenomatous polyposis Coli (Apc) and proliferative cyclin D1 (Ccnd1) genes. Weaned C57BL/6J male mice were fed for 6 weeks either an n-6HFD containing 44% energy (44%E) from 22% safflower oil (SO, 76% LA by weight) or a 13% energy (13%E) control diet (Control) from SO (5% by weight). Mice fed the n-6HFD had reduced (60%) Fxr promoter CpG methylation and increased (~50%) Fxr mRNA. The expression of FXR-target ileal bile acid-binding protein (Ibabp), small heterodimer protein (Shp), and anti-inflammatory peroxisome proliferator-activated-γ1 genes was increased. The n-6HFD reduced Ptgs-2 CpG methylation, increased the expression of Cox-2, and increased Apc CpG methylation in colonic mucosa. Accordingly, reduced expression of Apc was coupled to accumulation of c-JUN and Ccnd1, respectively cofactor and gene targets for the β-catenin/Wnt signaling pathway. Finally, the n-6HFD reduced the expression of histone deacetylase-1 while favoring the accumulation of acetylated histone 3. We conclude that an n-6HFD epigenetically modifies Fxr, leading to the activation of downstream factors that participate in BA homeostasis. However, epigenetic activation of Ptsg-2 coupled with silencing of Apc and accumulation of C-JUN and Ccnd1 may increase the risk of inflammation and cancer of the colon.

[Combined treatment with myo-inositol and luteolin selectively suppresses growth of human lung cancer A549 cells possibly by suppressing activation of PDK1 and Akt]

OBJECTIVE

To study the effects of myo-inositol and luteolin on human lung cancer A549 cells and explore the possible mechanisms.

METHODS

A549 cells were treated with different concentrations of myo-inositol and luteolin, either alone or in combination, and the cell viability was examined using MTT assay. A549 cells and human bronchial epithelial Beas-2B cells were treated for 48 h with 10 mmol/L myo-inositol and 20 μmol/L luteolin, alone or in combination, and the cell proliferation was detected using MTT assay; the colony formation and migration of the cells were examined with colony formation assay and wound healing assay, respectively. The protein expression levels in A549 cells were detected using Western blotting.

RESULTS

Both myo-inositol and luteolin could dose-dependently inhibit the viability of A549 cells. Treatments with 10 mmol/L myo-inositol, 20 μmol/L luteolin, and both for 48 h caused significant reduction in the cell viability (92%, 83% and 70% of the control level, respectively) and colony number (79%, 73% and 43%, respectively), and significantly lowered the wound closure rate (24.61%, 13.08% and 8.65%, respectively, as compared with 29.99% in the control group). Similar treatments with myoinositol and luteolin alone or in combination produced no significant inhibitory effect on the growth, colony formation or migration of Beas-2B cells. The expressions of p-PDK1 and p-Akt in myo-inositol-treated A549 cells and the expression of pPDK1 in luteolin-treated cells were significantly decreased (P &lt; 0.05), and the decrements were more obvious in the combined treatment group (P &lt; 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Luteolin combined with myo-inositol can selectively inhibit the proliferation and migration of A549 cells, and these effects are probably mediated, at least in part, by suppressing the activation of PDK1 and Akt.

SPECIFIC MOLECULAR RECOGNITION AS A STRATEGY TO DELINEATE TUMOR MARGIN USING TOPICALLY APPLIED FLUORESCENCE EMBEDDED NANOPARTICLES

The Thomsen-Friedenreich (TF) antigen is a tumor-associated antigen consistently expressed on the apical surface of epithelial-based cancer cells, including pancreatic cancer. In this work, we report the development of multimodal imaging probe, the tripolymer fluorescent nanospheres, whose surface was fabricated with peanut agglutinin (PNA) moieties as TF molecular recognition molecules. Here, we demonstrate that the probe is able to detect TF antigen in human pancreatic cancer tissues and differentiate from normal tissue. What is most noteworthy regarding the probe is its ability to visualize tumor margins defined by epithelial TF antigen expression. Further, in vivo preclinical studies using an orthotopic mouse model of pancreatic cancer suggest the potential use of the nanospheres for laparoscopic imaging of pancreatic cancer tumor margins to enhance surgical resection and improve clinical outcomes.

Phylogenetic Distribution of CMP-Neu5Ac Hydroxylase (CMAH), the Enzyme Synthetizing the Proinflammatory Human Xenoantigen Neu5Gc

The enzyme CMP-N-acetylneuraminic acid hydroxylase (CMAH) is responsible for the synthesis of N-glycolylneuraminic acid (Neu5Gc), a sialic acid present on the cell surface proteins of most deuterostomes. The CMAH gene is thought to be present in most deuterostomes, but it has been inactivated in a number of lineages, including humans. The inability of humans to synthesize Neu5Gc has had several evolutionary and biomedical implications. Remarkably, Neu5Gc is a xenoantigen for humans, and consumption of Neu5Gc-containing foods, such as red meats, may promote inflammation, arthritis, and cancer. Likewise, xenotransplantation of organs producing Neu5Gc can result in inflammation and organ rejection. Therefore, knowing what animal species contain a functional CMAH gene, and are thus capable of endogenous Neu5Gc synthesis, has potentially far-reaching implications. In addition to humans, other lineages are known, or suspected, to have lost CMAH; however, to date reports of absent and pseudogenic CMAH genes are restricted to a handful of species. Here, we analyze all available genomic data for nondeuterostomes, and 322 deuterostome genomes, to ascertain the phylogenetic distribution of CMAH. Among nondeuterostomes, we found CMAH homologs in two green algae and a few prokaryotes. Within deuterostomes, putatively functional CMAH homologs are present in 184 of the studied genomes, and a total of 31 independent gene losses/pseudogenization events were inferred. Our work produces a list of animals inferred to be free from endogenous Neu5Gc based on the absence of CMAH homologs and are thus potential candidates for human consumption, xenotransplantation research, and model organisms for investigation of human diseases.

Rising trends in pancreatic cancer incidence and mortality in 2000-2014

Background

The morbidity and mortality of pancreatic cancer vary considerably around the world. The aim of this study was to characterize and evaluate recent changes in incidence and incidence-based mortality in the USA.

Methods

Incidence and incidence-based mortality data were based on the 18 Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) registries through SEER^*Stat software. We adopted joinpoint regression to analyze the temporal trends stratified by age, gender, ethnicity, stage, tumor site, and size.

Results

Based on 18 SEER data sets, the age-adjusted incidence of pancreatic cancer increased from 11.85/100,000 in 2000 to 14.70/100,000 in 2014, increasing by an average annual percentage change (AAPC) of 1.6 (95% CI 1.5-1.8, p<0.05). The incidence-based mortality also increased, from 9.96/100,000 in 2001 to 12.96/100,000 in 2014, increasing by an AAPC of 1.9 (95% CI 1.3-2.5, p<0.05). However, we observed a deceleration in mortality since 2005, with the annual percentage change decreasing from 4.1 (2001-2005) to 1.0 (2005-2014). These increasing trends in pancreatic cancer were observed in most subgroups (stratified by age, gender, ethnicity, stage, tumor site, and size).

Conclusion

The incidence and mortality rates of pancreatic cancer in the USA have increased significantly since 2000, highlighting the need for increased preventive, screening, and surveillance efforts.

Jumonji AT-rich interactive domain 1B promotes the growth of pancreatic tumors via the phosphatase and tensin homolog/protein kinase B signaling pathway

Jumonji AT-rich interactive domain 1B (JARID1B) has been revealed to remove methyl residues from methylated lysine 4 on histone H3 (H3K4) and has also been reported to be associated with the progression of numerous types of tumor. However, its roles and mechanisms in pancreatic cancer (PC) remain unknown. The present study demonstrated that JARID1B is elevated in PC and is associated with the growth of pancreatic tumors. Overexpression of JARID1B significantly promoted the proliferation in vitro and tumor formation in vivo of PC cells. Furthermore, silencing the expression of JARID1B in other PC cells revealed opposite effects. Further research revealed that JARID1B exerted its function through modulation of H3K4me3 at the phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) gene promoter which was associated with inactive PTEN transcription. To the best of our knowledge, the present study was the first to demonstrate that JARID1B promotes the growth of PC and that targeting JARID1B may be a useful strategy to suppress the progression of PC.

Tumor Microenvironment-Enabled Nanotherapy

Cancer is now one of the world's leading threats to human health. With the development of oncology in both biology and biomedicine, it has been demonstrated that abnormal physiochemical conditions and dysregulated biosynthetic intermediates in tumor microenvironment (TME) play a pivotal role in enabling tumor cells to defend or evade the damage by traditional clinical tumor therapeutics including surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, etc. The fast advances of TME-enabled theranostic nanomedicine have offered promising perspectives, strategies, and approaches for combating cancer based on the novel concept of TME-enabled nanotherapy. In this comprehensive review, the origins of TME (e.g., enhanced permeability and retention effect, overexpressed biosynthetic intermediates, mild acidic nature, redox potentials, hypoxia) are initially introduced and discussed, followed by detailed discussion and overview on the state-of-the-art progresses in TME-enabled antitumor nanotherapies (e.g., chemo/chemodynamic therapy, photodynamic therapy, radiotherapy). Finally, the obstacles and challenges of future development on TME-enabled nanotherapies for further clinical translation are outlooked.

Occurrence of colorectal aberrant crypt foci depending on age and dietary patterns of patients

Background

Aberrant crypt foci (ACF) are commonly considered the early pre-cancerous lesions that can progress to colorectal cancer (CRC). The available literature data reveal that age, dietary factors and lifestyle can affect the development of several dozen percentages of malignant tumours, including CRC. In the present study, an attempt was made to assess the incidence and growth dynamics of ACF and to determine whether the type of diet affected the development and number of AFC.

Methods

Colonoscopy combined with rectal mucosa staining with 0.25% methylene blue was performed in 131 patients. On the day of examination, each patient completed a questionnaire regarding epidemiological data. According to their numbers, colorectal ACF were divided into three groups. The findings were analysed statistically. The Student’s t test and the U test were applied in order to determine the significance of differences of means and frequency of events in both groups. Statistica 7.1 and Excel 2010 were used.

Results

The single ACF occur in the youngest individuals (ACF < 5). Since the age of 38 years, the number of ACF gradually increases to show a decreasing tendency since the age of 60 years. The number of 5 < ACF < 10 occurs slightly later, since the age of 50 years, and dynamically increases reaching the maximum at the age of 62 years, subsequently the increase is proportional. ACF > 10 occur at a more advanced age (55 years) and their number gradually increases with age. The maximum number is observed at the age of 77 years.

In individuals not using high-fibre diets and with high intake of red meat, the probability of higher numbers of ACF increases. The probability of higher numbers of ACF (5 < ACF10) was observed in patients with colon diverticula. In patients with higher BMI, the number of ACF is higher.

Conclusion

Age significantly affects the number of colorectal ACF. The types of foods consumed can considerably increase the risk of colorectal ACF, which is particularly visible in individuals who do not regularly use high-fibre diets, those obese and with colon diverticula.

Colorectal Cancer after Breast Cancer: Magnitude of Risk in Clinical Practice and in the Literature

Aims and background

The aim of our study was to estimate the incidence of second primary tumors among breast cancer patients from the Division of Oncology of Andosilla Hospital (Viterbo, Italy). In particular, we studied the relationship between breast and colorectal cancer.

Methods and Study Design

Eligible women were those with primary invasive breast cancer who had been treated and/or followed up at our division. We compared our data with those reported in the literature.

Results

Of 114 women with breast cancer, 21 (18.5%) developed multiple primary cancers, with colorectal cancer accounting for a quarter. We found a higher incidence of colorectal cancer than reported in the literature (5% vs 0.66–1%). At the moment we are not able to explain this difference.

Conclusions

Quite a few studies reported a link between breast and colorectal cancer, but the magnitude of the risk (standardized incidence ratio 1.3–2) does not justify a screening program for colorectal disease in breast cancer patients. However, considering that the risk is small but not negligible – along with the high incidence of colorectal adenomas described in breast cancer patients and the possible existence of common risk factors – we invite clinicians not to neglect the possibility of a colorectal cancer diagnosis in women who have had breast cancer.

Synbiotics for Improved Human Health: Recent Developments, Challenges, and Opportunities

Research on combining pro- and prebiotics as synbiotics to enhance human and animal health has accelerated in the past 10 years, including many clinical trials that have assessed a diverse range of synbiotic formulations. In this review, we summarize these studies as well as the commercial applications of synbiotics that are available. In particular, we critically assess the claimed health benefits of synbiotic applications and the ecological and therapeutic factors to consider when designing synbiotics and discuss the implications of these concepts for future research in this field.

Pancreatic cancer: A critical review of dietary risk

Pancreatic cancer is a deadly disease. It is estimated that about 90% of pancreatic cancer cases are due to environmental risk factors. Among these, approximately 50% of pancreatic cancer cases may be attributed to diet, which is largely modifiable. Given this large attribution to diet, there have been numerous epidemiological studies assessing the risk of various dietary factors on the incidence of pancreatic cancer. However, many of these studies present conflicting and/or inconclusive findings. The objective of this review is two-fold: (a) to summarize the current evidence on the association between various dietary factors and the risk of developing pancreatic cancer and (b) to discuss what additional studies are needed to better elucidate the role of diet as a potential risk factor for pancreatic cancer. We summarized the evidence by using data primarily from meta-analyses and pooled analysis when available, focusing on the most studied nutrients, foods, and dietary patterns. We observed that, while the association between individual nutrients and pancreatic cancer risk have been heavily studied, the evidence is mostly conflicting and inconclusive. In contrast, the evidence of certain associations among dietary patterns and pancreatic cancer risk is clearer, has more power, and is less conflicting. Therefore, we propose a shift in the focus of nutritional epidemiological research with regards to pancreatic cancer risk. We discourage further epidemiological research studies that focus on single nutrients, whereas we strongly encourage additional studies that investigate how a combination of diet and other lifestyle factors may promote or prevent pancreatic carcinogenesis.

Height, selected genetic markers and prostate cancer risk: results from the PRACTICAL consortium

BACKGROUND

Evidence on height and prostate cancer risk is mixed, however, recent studies with large data sets support a possible role for its association with the risk of aggressive prostate cancer.

METHODS

We analysed data from the PRACTICAL consortium consisting of 6207 prostate cancer cases and 6016 controls and a subset of high grade cases (2480 cases). We explored height, polymorphisms in genes related to growth processes as main effects and their possible interactions.

RESULTS

The results suggest that height is associated with high-grade prostate cancer risk. Men with height >180 cm are at a 22% increased risk as compared to men with height <173 cm (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.01-1.48). Genetic variants in the growth pathway gene showed an association with prostate cancer risk. The aggregate scores of the selected variants identified a significantly increased risk of overall prostate cancer and high-grade prostate cancer by 13% and 15%, respectively, in the highest score group as compared to lowest score group.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no evidence of gene-environment interaction between height and the selected candidate SNPs.Our findings suggest a role of height in high-grade prostate cancer. The effect of genetic variants in the genes related to growth is seen in all cases and high-grade prostate cancer. There is no interaction between these two exposures.

Role of intestinal microbiome in American ginseng-mediated colon cancer prevention in high fat diet-fed AOM/DSS mice [corrected]

OBJECTIVE

Chronic intestinal inflammation is a risk factor for colorectal cancer (CRC) initiation and development. Diets that are rich in Western style fats have been shown to promote CRC. This study was conducted to investigate the role of intestinal microbiome in American ginseng-mediated CRC chemoprevention in a mouse model. The population and diversity of enteric microbiome were evaluated after the ginseng treatment.

METHODS

Using an azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced gut inflammation and tumorigenesis mouse model, the effects of oral American ginseng on high fat diet-associated enteric pathology were determined. After establishment of a 16S rRNA illumina library from fecal samples, MiSeq sequencing was carried out to reveal the microbial population. The alpha and beta diversities of microbiome were analyzed.

RESULTS

American ginseng significantly attenuated AOM/DSS-induced colon inflammation and tumorigenesis by reducing the colitis score and colon tumor multiplicity. The MiSeq results showed that the majority of sequences fell into three phyla: Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes and Verrucomicrobia. Further, two significant abundance shifts at the family level, Bacteroidaceae and Porphyromonadaceae, were identified to support ginseng's anti-colitis and anti-tumor effects. In addition, alpha and beta diversity data demonstrated that ginseng led to a profound recovery from the AOM/DSS-induced dysbiosis in the microbial community.

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that the CRC chemopreventive effects of American ginseng are mediated through enteric microbiome population-shift recovery and dysbiosis restoration. Ginseng's regulation of the microbiome balance contributes to the maintenance of enteric homeostasis.

The role of the microbiome in cancer development and therapy

Answer questions and earn CME/CNE The human body harbors enormous numbers of microbiota that influence cancer susceptibility, in part through their prodigious metabolic capacity and their profound influence on immune cell function. Microbial pathogens drive tumorigenesis in 15% to 20% of cancer cases. Even larger numbers of malignancies are associated with an altered composition of commensal microbiota (dysbiosis) based on microbiome studies using metagenomic sequencing. Although association studies cannot distinguish whether changes in microbiota are causes or effects of cancer, a causative role is supported by rigorously controlled preclinical studies using gnotobiotic mouse models colonized with one or more specific bacteria. These studies demonstrate that microbiota can alter cancer susceptibility and progression by diverse mechanisms, such as modulating inflammation, inducing DNA damage, and producing metabolites involved in oncogenesis or tumor suppression. Evidence is emerging that microbiota can be manipulated for improving cancer treatment. By incorporating probiotics as adjuvants for checkpoint immunotherapy or by designing small molecules that target microbial enzymes, microbiota can be harnessed to improve cancer care. CA Cancer J Clin 2017;67:326-344. © 2017 American Cancer Society.