Protective Effect of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in Fish Consumption Against Breast Cancer in Asian Patients: A Meta-Analysis

Metabolomic landscape of overall and common cancers in the UK Biobank: A prospective cohort study

Information about the NMR metabolomics landscape of overall, and common cancers is still limited. Based on a cohort of 83,290 participants from the UK Biobank, we used multivariate Cox regression to assess the associations between each of the 168 metabolites with the risks of overall cancer and 20 specific types of cancer. Then, we applied LASSO to identify important metabolites for overall cancer risk and obtained their associations using multivariate cox regression. We further conducted mediation analysis to evaluate the mediated role of metabolites in the effects of traditional factors on overall cancer risk. Finally, we included the 13 identified metabolites as predictors in prediction models, and compared the accuracies of our traditional models. We found that there were commonalities among the metabolic profiles of overall and specific types of cancer: the top 20 frequently identified metabolites for 20 specific types of cancer were all associated with overall cancer; most of the specific types of cancer had common identified metabolites. Meanwhile, the associations between the same metabolite with different types of cancer can vary based on the site of origin. We identified 13 metabolic biomarkers associated with overall cancer, and found that they mediated the effects of traditional factors. The accuracies of prediction models improved when we added 13 identified metabolites in models. This study is helpful to understand the metabolic mechanisms of overall and a wide range of cancers, and our results also indicate that NMR metabolites are potential biomarkers in cancer diagnosis and prevention.

Evaluation of the Composition of the Cholesterol, Tocopherols, β-Carotene and Fatty Acids Profile of the Liver Tissue of Male Water Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) Managed in Different Ecosystems of the Eastern Amazon

The diet offered to animals has a great influence on the composition of tissues and, consequently, the quality. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of Amazonian ecosystems, in the dry and rainy periods of the year, on the composition of cholesterol, tocopherols, β-carotene and the fatty acid profile of the livers of water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) reared in the Eastern Amazon, in an extensive or intensive system. Total lipid content was influenced by the location and time of year (p < 0.05). Ninety-six male water buffaloes were used (12 per sampling period), aged between 24 and 36 months, with average weights of 432 kg (end of the rainy season) and 409 kg (end of the dry season). Total cholesterol, α-tocopherol and γ-tocopherol influenced the relationship between extensive vs intensive ecosystems, location, periods and the interaction between the location and period of the year (p < 0.05). Animals raised in a pasture ecosystem had the highest values of omega-3, and those raised in confinement, the highest values of omega-6 (p < 0.05). The proportions of n-6/n-3 and hypocholesterolemia (7.14) and hypercholesterolemia (3.08%) (h/H) were found in greater amounts in animals raised in confinement (p < 0.05). The atherogenic index (AI) had a higher value in the rainy season, in animals raised in Santarém (2.37%), with no difference between pasture and feedlot ecosystems, except in animals raised in the rainy season in Nova Timboteua, with a lower AI (1.53%). The thrombogenicity index (TI) was higher in the livers of confined animals (0.32%) and lower (0.18%) in those raised in Nova Timboteua (rainy season). Amazonian ecosystems influence the nutritional values of buffalo liver, with the best nutritional values in animals in the extensive system.

Association of Dietary Factors and Physical Inactivity with Molecular Subtypes of Breast Cancer- Hospital Based Case-Control Study

Improper diet and physical inactivity are environmental risk factors for breast cancer (BC). This study evaluated the association of dietary risk factors and physical activities with different molecular subtypes of BC. We conducted a case-control study among 130 cases of BC and 150 age-matched controls. Demographic data and tissue marker status were obtained. Diet was assessed using Food Frequency Questionnaire and physical activity was determined using Physical Activity Questionnaire. The association between diet and physical activity with the cancer status was evaluated by Pearson's Correlation. Among the various dietary factors, refined oil displayed a weak albeit significant positive correlation (r = 0.344) to Luminal B subtype of BC. Consumption of all kinds of non-vegetarian food exhibited significant elevation in BC risk with OR > 1.9 (95% CI 0.825-2.707). A higher odds ratio (>1.66) was observed in individuals who had a limited intake of fruits. Furthermore, a strong association was found between low physical activity and breast cancer risk, with around 14.6% of cases being distinctly linked to this risk (OR = 3.33, 95% CI 1.158-9.403, p < 0.01). In essence, while dietary factors exhibited a negative correlation with breast cancer risk, the risk was heightened by physical inactivity.

Red Meat Consumption and Cancer Risk: A Systematic Analysis of Global Data

The association between red meat consumption and cancer risk remains a controversy. In this study, we systematically collected and analyzed global data (from Our World in Data and Global Cancer Observatory) to investigate this association for the first time. Our results confirmed significant positive associations between red meat consumption (RMC) and overall cancer incidence (0.798, p < 0.001), or colorectal cancer incidence (0.625, p < 0.001). Several previously unreported cancer types linked to RMC were also unveiled. Gross domestic product (GDP) per capita were found to have an impact on this association. However, even after controlling it, RMC remained significantly associated with cancer incidence (0.463, p < 0.001; 0.592, p < 0.001). Meanwhile, after controlling GDP per capita, the correlation coefficients between white meat consumption and overall cancer incidence were found to be much lower and insignificant, at 0.089 (p = 0.288) for poultry consumption and at -0.055 (p = 0.514) for seafood and fish consumption. Notably, an interesting comparison was performed between changes of colorectal cancer incidence and RMC in many countries and regions. A lag of 15-20 years was found, implying causality between RMC and cancer risk. Our findings will contribute to the development of more rational meat consumption concept.

Cancer Metabolism as a Therapeutic Target and Review of Interventions

Cancer is amenable to low-cost treatments, given that it has a significant metabolic component, which can be affected through diet and lifestyle change at minimal cost. The Warburg hypothesis states that cancer cells have an altered cell metabolism towards anaerobic glycolysis. Given this metabolic reprogramming in cancer cells, it is possible to target cancers metabolically by depriving them of glucose. In addition to dietary and lifestyle modifications which work on tumors metabolically, there are a panoply of nutritional supplements and repurposed drugs associated with cancer prevention and better treatment outcomes. These interventions and their evidentiary basis are covered in the latter half of this review to guide future cancer treatment.

The Risk of Breast Cancer between Western and Mediterranean Dietary Patterns

Breast cancer is a significant public health problem globally and prevention strategies have become of great interest as its incidence rises. Exploring the connection between dietary patterns and the reduction of breast cancer risk is considered a promising approach. High levels of fiber, phytochemicals, a good antioxidant profile, and a composition of advantageous fatty acids are characteristics of healthy dietary programs such as the Mediterranean diet. This review summarized and discussed the active compounds that are considered important in preventing breast cancer, including dietary components from recent related reports. These include polyunsaturated fatty acids, fiber, phytochemicals, and alcohol. Although the exact mechanism for preventing breast cancer using these dietary factors is not well understood, the combination of all the elements in a healthy diet plays a role in reducing breast cancer risk. Considering the elevated probability of breast cancer relapse and mortality, it is crucial to investigate the correlation between a nutritious dietary pattern and breast cancer, while identifying bioactive components that have the potential to mitigate the risk of breast cancer incidence.

Dietary Inflammatory Index and risk of breast cancer: evidence from a prospective cohort of 67,879 women followed for 20 years in France

BACKGROUND

Inflammation is implicated in breast cancer development, and diet is one of the modifiable risk factors involved in the regulation of chronic inflammation. Previous studies on the association between breast cancer risk and Dietary Inflammatory Indexes (DII) derived from food frequency questionnaires and data on inflammatory potential of dietary components have reported inconsistent results.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between the DII and the risk of breast cancer using data from a large population-based cohort study.

DESIGN

A total of 67,879 women from the E3N cohort were followed from 1993 to 2014. A total of 5686 breast cancer cases were diagnosed during the follow-up. The food frequency questionnaire administered at baseline in 1993 was used to calculate an adapted DII. Cox proportional hazard models using age as the time scale were used to estimate hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Spline regression was used to determine any dose-response relationship. We also evaluated effect modification by menopausal status, body mass index, smoking status and alcohol consumption.

RESULTS

The median DII score of the study population was slightly pro-inflammatory (DII = + 0.39); ranged from - 4.68 in the lowest quintile to + 4.29 in the highest quintile. The HR increased linearly with the DII (HR per 1SD = 1.04 [95% CI: 1.01, 1.07]), and reached 1.13 [95% CI: 1.04, 1.23] in the 5th quintile group as compared to the first. A positive linear dose-response relationship was also observed when modeling DII with spline functions. Slightly higher HRs were observed in non-smokers (HR _{for 1-SD increase} 1.06 [95% CI: 1.02, 1.10]; p trend = 0.001) and in low-alcohol consumers (≤ 1 glass/day) (HR _{for 1-SD increase} 1.05 [95% CI: 1.01, 1.08]; p trend = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest a positive association between DII and breast cancer risk. Consequently, the promotion of anti-inflammatory diet may contribute to breast cancer prevention.

Assessing the Highest Level of Evidence from Randomized Controlled Trials in Omega-3 Research

Over the years, there has been heightened interest in the health benefits of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) in reducing chronic diseases such as, cardiovascular disease (CVD), cancer, type 2 diabetes, and acute macular degeneration (AMD). Due to inconsistent findings in the evidence, a review to critically examine the plethora of evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in n-3 PUFA research was undertaken. The aim of this review is to study the highest level of evidence and to identify gaps in n-3 PUFA research. RCTs were originally designed for pharmaceutical research and later adopted for nutrition and food-related research. RCTs with active diseases assume that n-3 PUFA will have "drug" like effects, and this high expectation may have led to the inconsistent evidence in the literature. The inconsistency in the literature may be related to varying doses of n-3 PUFA, sources of n-3 PUFA (food vs. supplement; plant vs. marine), type of n-3 PUFA (mixture vs. purified), trial duration, population characteristics, sample size, and genetic variation. For future research, there is a need to distinguish between primary and secondary prevention, and to focus RCTs on primary prevention of chronic diseases by n-3 PUFA which is lacking in the literature.

Fish consumption in multiple health outcomes: an umbrella review of meta-analyses of observational and clinical studies

Background

Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are known to be associated with numbers of health benefits, and which can be uptake from fish. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current evidence of associations between consumption of fish and diverse health outcomes. Here, we performed an umbrella review to summarize the breadth, strength, and validity of the evidence derived from meta-analyses and systematic reviews of fish consumption on all health outcomes.

Methods

The methodological quality of the included meta-analyses and the quality of the evidence were assessed by the Assessment of Multiple Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) and the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluation (GRADE) tools, respectively. The umbrella review identified 91 meta-analyses with 66 unique health outcomes, of which 32 outcomes were beneficial, 34 showed nonsignificant associations and only one was harmful (myeloid leukemia).

Results

A total of 17 beneficial associations [all-cause mortality, prostate cancer mortality, cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), glioma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), oral cancer, acute coronary syndrome (ACS), cerebrovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn's disease (CD), triglycerides, vitamin D, high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol, and multiple sclerosis (MS)], and eight nonsignificant associations [colorectal cancer (CRC) mortality, esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC), prostate cancer, renal cancer, ovarian cancer, hypertension, ulcerative colitis (UC), and rheumatoid arthritis (RA)] were evaluated as moderate/high quality of evidence. According to dose-response analyses, consumption of fish, especially fatty types, seems generally safe at one-two servings per week and could exert protective effects.

Conclusions

Fish consumption is often associated with a variety of health outcomes, both beneficial and harmless, but only about 34% of the associations were graded as based on a moderate/high quality of evidence, and additional multicenter high quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with a large sample size are needed to verify these findings in the future.

Association of Fruit, Vegetable, and Animal Food Intakes with Breast Cancer Risk Overall and by Molecular Subtype among Vietnamese Women

BACKGROUND

Evidence on associations between dietary intake and risk of breast cancer subtypes is limited and inconsistent. We evaluated associations of fruit, vegetable, meat, and fish consumption with risk of breast cancer overall and by molecular subtype in the Vietnamese Breast Cancer Study (VBCS).

METHOD

VBCS includes 476 incident breast cancer cases and 454 age-matched controls. Dietary habits over the past 5 years were assessed by in-person interviews using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Associations of food groups with breast cancer were evaluated via logistic regression for overall and molecular subtype with adjustment for age, education, income, family history of cancer, menopausal status, body mass index, exercise, total energy intake, and other potential dietary confounders. Odds ratio (OR) was used to approximate relative risk.

RESULTS

High fruit intake was inversely associated with breast cancer risk, with adjusted ORs [95% confidence intervals (CI)] of 0.67 (95% CI, 0.47-0.95) and 0.41 (95% CI, 0.27-0.61) for second and third tertiles versus first tertile, respectively (Ptrend < 0.001). This association was stronger for triple-negative than other subtypes (Pheterogeneity < 0.001). High intake of freshwater fish was inversely associated with overall breast cancer (ORT3vsT1 = 0.63; 95% CI, 0.42-0.95; Ptrend = 0.03). An inverse association was observed between HER2-enriched subtype and red and organ meat intake (ORT3vsT1 = 0.40; 95% CI, 0.17-0.93; Ptrend = 0.04; Pheterogeneity = 0.50).

CONCLUSIONS

High intakes of fruit and freshwater fish were associated with reduced breast cancer risk; association for the former was stronger for triple-negative subtype.

IMPACT

Our findings suggest high intakes of fruit and freshwater fish may reduce breast cancer risk among Vietnamese women.

Combination Treatment of Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Vitamin C Exhibited Promising Therapeutic Effect against Oxidative Impairment of the Liver in Methotrexate-Intoxicated Mice

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is the main cause of liver damage mediated by the excretion of toxic active drug metabolites. Omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin C have potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiapoptotic effects that could offer protection against oxidative stress and liver damage. This study evaluated the hepatoprotective effect of omega-3 and vitamin C alone as well as in a combined form in methotrexate- (MTX-) induced acute liver injury in mice. Male ICR mice of seven groups (7 mice per group) were used. Groups 1 (control group) and 2 (MTX) received 0.9% saline/day (po) for 9 days. Groups 3 and 4 received 100 and 200 mg/kg bw/day omega-3 (po), respectively, for 9 days. Groups 5 and 6 received 100 and 200 mg/kg bw/day vitamin C (po), respectively, for 9 days, while group 7 received omega-3 (100 mg/kg bw/day) and vitamin C (100 mg/kg bw/day) (po) for 9 days. All animals in groups 2 to 7 received 20 mg/kg/day MTX (I.P.) once on the 10th day. Our results revealed that MTX significantly induced the elevation of transaminases, alkaline phosphates (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and malonaldehyde (MDA) while depleting the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione (GSH) when compared to the control group. Treatment with omega-3 fatty acids or vitamin C significantly attenuated the antioxidants and biochemical alterations in a dose-independent manner. Our molecular docking study of ligand-receptor interaction revealed that both ascorbic acid and omega-3 docked well to the binding cavity of LDH with high binding affinities of –5.20 and –4.50 kcal/mol, respectively. The histopathological features were also improved by treatment with omega-3 and vitamin C. The combined form of omega-3 and vitamin C showed a remarkable improvement in the liver enzymes, oxidative stress biomarkers, and the histopathological architecture of the mice. Conclusively, the combination of omega-3 and vitamin C demonstrated a synergistic therapeutic effect against MTX-intoxicated mice, hence representing a potential novel strategy for the management of drug-induced liver disorders.

Consumption of Food Components of the Mediterranean Diet Decreases the Risk of Breast Cancer in the Makkah Region, Saudi Arabia: A Case-Control Study

Background

Breast cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, it affects both men and women. In Saudi Arabia, breast cancer has been the most prevalent type of cancer in women, for the past few years. Dietary habits and cultural beliefs vary according to region, and further studies are required to demonstrate the relationship between these dietary habits and cultural beliefs and the risk of developing breast cancer. This study is aimed to discover the relationship between preventive dietary factors of the Mediterranean diet and rates of breast cancer among postmenopausal women in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A case-control study was conducted in King Abdulla Medical City Hospital, Makkah, Saudi Arabia and included 432 Saudi female participants: 218 in the control group and 214 breast cancer patients. All participants were postmenopausal, around the same age, and all were ethnically Arab Saudis. Data were obtained using a self-administered validated questionnaire.

Results

Study results showed that a diet that includes 1-2 servings of legumes weekly, 1-5 servings of fish weekly, 1-5 servings of dairy products daily, 3-5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily, and more than one cup of black tea and coffee per day significantly (p < 0.05) reduces the risk of breast cancer.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that consuming a Mediterranean diet, which includes legumes, fish, fruits and vegetables, black tea, coffee, and low intake of dairy products, works as a preventive factor against breast cancer in postmenopausal females from the Makkah region.

Serum perfluoroalkyl substances and breast cancer risk in Japanese women: A case-control study

BACKGROUND

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) may contribute to causing breast cancer; however, associations between exposure to PFASs and risk of breast cancer are controversial.

OBJECTIVES

In the present study, we newly distinguished branched isomers of PFASs from their linear isomers and aimed to investigate the association between serum PFAS concentrations and breast cancer risk in Japanese women.

METHODS

We used a case-control design to study 405 eligible matched pairs attending four hospitals in Nagano Prefecture, Japan from May 2001 to September 2005. We used in-port arylation gas-chromatography mass spectrometry with negative chemical ionization to measure serum concentrations of 20 PFAS congeners. We calculated multivariable-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of breast cancer and its hormone-receptor subtypes by quartiles or tertiles of serum PFASs.

RESULTS

After multivariable adjustment for breast cancer risk factors, we found that serum concentrations of 20 PFAS congeners were significantly inversely associated with risk of breast cancer. Comparing the extreme quartiles of linear isomers of perfluorooctane sulfonate or perfluorooctanoic acid, ORs were 0.15 (95% CI: 0.07, 0.33 P for trend <0.0001) and 0.21 95% CI: 0.10, 0.44 P for trend <0.0001). Among postmenopausal women, whereas we found the linear isomer of perfluorotridecanoic acid to be inversely associated with breast cancer risk, a medium degree of exposure to the branched isomer of perfluorotridecanoic acid was associated with a marginally increased risk of breast cancer (OR [95% CI] = 1.74 [0.98, 3.09]).

DISCUSSION

In our case-control study, we found overall no association between serum PFAS concentrations and increased risk of breast cancer. Many inverse associations between serum PFAS concentrations and breast cancer risk were found.

How cancer cells remodel lipid metabolism: strategies targeting transcription factors

Reprogramming of lipid metabolism has received increasing recognition as a hallmark of cancer cells because lipid dysregulation and the alteration of related enzyme profiles are closely correlated with oncogenic signals and malignant phenotypes, such as metastasis and therapeutic resistance. In this review, we describe recent findings that support the importance of lipids, as well as the transcription factors involved in cancer lipid metabolism. With recent advances in transcription factor analysis, including computer-modeling techniques, transcription factors are emerging as central players in cancer biology. Considering the limited number and the crucial role of transcription factors associated with lipid rewiring in cancers, transcription factor targeting is a promising potential strategy for cancer therapy.

Pharmaconutrition strategy to resolve SARS-CoV-2-induced inflammatory cytokine storm in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids

Inflammation is one of the primary factors associated with the causation and/or progression of several lifestyle disorders, including obesity, type 2 diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). NAFLD is a spectrum of disorders, and starts with simple steatosis, progresses to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, and then advances to fibrosis, cirrhosis and finally, hepatocellular carcinoma, due to perpetual cycles of insults caused by inflammation and other cellular stress. Emerging evidence has documented that patients with NAFLD have severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and patients with COVID-19 have a higher liver injury and mortality. Although the exact cause or mechanism is not known, inflammatory cytokine storm is a characteristic feature of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and is known to be associated with higher mortality among COVID-19 patients. Therefore, the COVID-19 pandemic seems to be a major concern in NAFLD patients, who have contracted SARS-CoV-2 infection and develop COVID-19. This is evident in patients at any stage of the NAFLD spectrum, as the inflammatory cytokine storm may cause and/or aggravate the progression or severity of NAFLD. Thus, there is a need for resolution of the inflammatory cytokine storm in these patients. A large body of evidence has demonstrated the efficacy of omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 LCPUFA) in NAFLD conditions, due to their anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and anti-viral properties. Therefore, intervention with ω-3 LCPUFA, an effective pharmaconutrient along with the standard treatment for COVID-19 may be useful in the management of the NAFLD spectrum in COVID-19 patients with pre-existing NAFLD conditions by resolving the inflammatory cytokine storm and thereby attenuating its progression. Although there are challenges in implementation, optimistically they can be circumvented and the pharmaconutrition strategy may be potentially helpful in tackling both the pandemics; NAFLD and COVID-19 at least in this subset of patients.

Mediterranean Diet and Physical Activity: Two Imperative Components in Breast Cancer Prevention

Despite tremendous advances in medicine over the past few decades and significantly improved understanding of the symptomology and contributors to breast cancer (BC) incidence, BC rates continue to rise worldwide, with BC being a leading cause of cancer-related death among women. To reduce BC incidence, it is necessary to focus on promoting prevention strategies through a population-based approach of lowering exposure to modifiable risk factors in addition to the application of newer drug interventions (chemoprevention) for prevention in high-risk populations. Currently, available data suggest that lifestyle modifications through a healthy diet and increased physical activity (PA) play a crucial role in BC prevention; specifically, there is growing evidence to indicate that the Mediterranean diet (MeD) lowers cancer risk. This review summarizes the potential role of the MeD and PA in reducing BC risk, with an additional focus on microbial modulation in BC prevention, based on the current evidence obtained from PubMed. After reviewing the immunomodulatory and anticarcinogenic effects of both the MeD and PA, we conclude that further evaluation and proper implementation of both interventions can significantly reduce the risk of BC and associated mortality in the general population.

Epigenetic Reprogramming Mediated by Maternal Diet Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids Protects From Breast Cancer Development in F1 Offspring

Diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids (FA) have been associated with lowered risks of developing certain types of cancers. We earlier reported that in transgenic mice prone to develop breast cancer (BCa), a diet supplemented with canola oil, rich in omega-3-rich FA (as opposed to an omega-6-rich diet containing corn oil), reduced the risk of developing BCa, and also significantly reduced the incidence of BCa in F1 offspring. To investigate the underlying mechanisms of the cancer protective effect of canola oil in the F1 generation, we designed and performed the present study with the same diets using BALB/c mice to remove any possible effect of the transgene. First, we observed epigenetic changes at the genome-wide scale in F1 offspring of mothers fed diets containing omega-3 FAs, including a significant increase in acetylation of H3K18 histone mark and a decrease in H3K4me2 mark on nucleosomes around transcription start sites. These epigenetic modifications contribute to differential gene expressions associated with various pathways and molecular mechanisms involved in preventing cancer development, including p53 pathway, G2M checkpoint, DNA repair, inflammatory response, and apoptosis. When offspring mice were exposed to 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA), the group of mice exposed to a canola oil (with omega 3 FAs)-rich maternal diet showed delayed mortality, increased survival, reduced lateral tumor growth, and smaller tumor size. Remarkably, various genes, including BRCA genes, appear to be epigenetically re-programmed to poise genes to be ready for a rapid transcriptional activation due to the canola oil-rich maternal diet. This ability to respond rapidly due to epigenetic potentiation appeared to contribute to and promote protection against breast cancer after carcinogen exposure.

A longitudinal association between the traditional Japanese diet score and incidence and mortality of breast cancer-an ecological study

BACKGROUND

The traditional Japanese diet is considered one of the important factors of health and longevity in Japanese people. Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in the world. However, the association between the traditional Japanese diet and breast cancer is unclear. The purpose of this study was to investigate the longitudinal association between the traditional Japanese diet score (TJDS) with the incidence and mortality of breast cancer in an ecological study.

METHODS

Food supply and breast cancer incidence and mortality by country were obtained from an international database. TJDS by country was calculated from nine food groups and the total score ranged from -9 to 9, with higher scores indicating greater adherence to a traditional Japanese diet. Longitudinal associations of interaction between TJDS and fiscal year on breast cancer incidence and mortality were investigated in 139 countries with populations of 1 million or greater. The longitudinal analysis was evaluated using four linear mixed-effect models with different adjustment covariables.

RESULTS

Many countries with high scores on TJDS had lower distributions of breast cancer incidence and mortality in 1990-2017. Longitudinal analysis using a linear mixed-effect model controlled for socio-economic and lifestyle covariables showed that the interaction between TJDS and fiscal year was significantly associated with incidence of breast cancer (-0.453 ± 0.138, p < 0.01) and mortality of breast cancer (-0.455 ± 0.135, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This longitudinal analysis suggested that a traditional Japanese diet has been associated with lower breast cancer incidence and mortality worldwide in recent years.

Sustainable Synthesis of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Ethyl Esters from Monkfish Liver Oil

The search for economic and sustainable sources of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) within the framework of the circular economy is encouraged by their proven beneficial effects on health. The extraction of monkfish liver oil (MLO) for the synthesis of omega-3 ethyl esters was performed to evaluate two blending systems and four green solvents in this work. Moreover, the potential solubility of the MLO in green solvents was studied using the predictive simulation software COnductor-like Screening MOdel for Realistic Solvents (COSMO-RS). The production of ethyl esters was performed by one or two-step reactions. Novozym 435, two resting cells (Aspergillus flavus and Rhizopus oryzae) obtained in our laboratory and a mix of them were used as biocatalysts in a solvent-free system. The yields for Novozym 435, R. oryzae and A. flavus in the one-step esterification were 63, 61 and 46%, respectively. The hydrolysis step in the two-step reaction led to 83, 88 and 93% of free fatty acids (FFA) for Novozym 435, R. oryzae and A. flavus, respectively. However, Novozym 435 showed the highest yield in the esterification step (85%), followed by R. oryzae (65%) and A. flavus (41%). Moreover, selectivity of polyunsaturated fatty acids of R. oryzae lipase was evidenced as it slightly esterified docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in all the esterification reactions tested.

Mediterranean diet and breast cancer risk: a narrative review

Breast cancer is the second most frequent type of cancer worldwide and the most commonly occurring malignancy in women, and its incidence is increasing in most developed and developing countries. There is growing evidence that lifestyle factors, in particular diet may be associated with higher breast cancer risk. Some evidence exists regarding the benefit of Mediterranean diet on reduced risk of breast cancer in premenopausal and postmenopausal women. The protective effect of the Mediterranean diet against the risk of breast cancer, is primarily due to principal foods of this nutritional pattern. The principal components of the Mediterranean diet, such as fruits and vegetables, olive oil, fish and red wine have important antioxidants properties due to their high content of substances like polyphenols, flavonoids, carotenoids and fibers, along with a favorable fatty acid profile, that in turn could reduce the risk of breast cancer. Considering the severity of breast cancer and the increasing incidence in the world, there is an increasing interest in promoting prevention strategies in order to reduce the incidence. The aim of this paper is to provide a general overview of the current evidence on the relationship between breast cancer and Mediterranean diet, in premenopausal and postmenopausal women, and to emphasize the potential role of Mediterranean Diet as an effective tool in primary prevention. The possible molecular mechanisms underlying this association will be also pointed out.

Dietary Intake of N-3 and N-6 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Risk of Cancer: Meta-Analysis of Data from 32 Studies

BACKGROUND

Large epidemiological studies have yielded conflicting results regarding the relationship between polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and cancers. Here, we performed a meta-analysis to examine the link between dietary intake of n-3 and n-6 PUFAs and cancer risk.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a search on PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library. Studies that reported adjusted relative risk (RR) estimates with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the associations of interest were included.

RESULTS

Thirty-two studies involving 1,445,732 participants were included. Colorectal, breast and prostate cancer had been analyzed in our study. Specifically, for colorectal cancer, total n-3 PUFAs, marine n-3 PUFAs, α-linolenic acids (ALA) and n-6 PUFAs were not associated with the risk of it (RR 1.04, 95%CI 0.85-1.28; RR 0.99, 95%CI 0.89-1.09; RR 1.05, 95%CI 0.93-1.19; RR 1.02, 95%CI 0.94-1.11, respectively). For breast cancer, only marine n-3 PUFAs, but not total n-3 PUFAs, ALA, and n-6 PUFAs, was associated with a lower risk of it (RR 0.70, 95%CI 0.55-0.91). For prostate cancer, ALA and n-6 PUFAs also have no association with the risk of it.

CONCLUSIONS

Most subtypes of PUFAs are probably not related to cancers. However, additional high-quality trials are warranted to corroborate the findings of this meta-analysis.

Dietary Fat and Cancer-Which Is Good, Which Is Bad, and the Body of Evidence

A high-fat diet (HFD) induces changes in gut microbiota leading to activation of pro-inflammatory pathways, and obesity, as a consequence of overnutrition, exacerbates inflammation, a known risk factor not only for cancer. However, experimental data showed that the composition of dietary fat has a greater impact on the pathogenesis of cancer than the total fat content in isocaloric diets. Similarly, human studies did not prove that a decrease in total fat intake is an effective strategy to combat cancer. Saturated fat has long been considered as harmful, but the current consensus is that moderate intake of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), including palmitic acid (PA), does not pose a health risk within a balanced diet. In regard to monounsaturated fat, plant sources are recommended. The consumption of plant monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), particularly from olive oil, has been associated with lower cancer risk. Similarly, the replacement of animal MUFAs with plant MUFAs decreased cancer mortality. The impact of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) on cancer risk depends on the ratio between ω-6 and ω-3 PUFAs. In vivo data showed stimulatory effects of ω-6 PUFAs on tumour growth while ω-3 PUFAs were protective, but the results of human studies were not as promising as indicated in preclinical reports. As for trans FAs (TFAs), experimental data mostly showed opposite effects of industrially produced and natural TFAs, with the latter being protective against cancer progression, but human data are mixed, and no clear conclusion can be made. Further studies are warranted to establish the role of FAs in the control of cell growth in order to find an effective strategy for cancer prevention/treatment.

Dietary fat and obesity as modulators of breast cancer risk: Focus on DNA methylation

Breast cancer (BC) is the most common cancer and second leading cause of cancer mortality in women worldwide. Validated biomarkers enhance efforts for early detection and treatment, which reduce the risk of mortality. Epigenetic signatures have been suggested as good biomarkers for early detection, prognosis and targeted therapy of BC. Here, we highlight studies documenting the modifying effects of dietary fatty acids and obesity on BC biomarkers associated with DNA methylation. We focus our analysis on changes elicited in writers of DNA methylation (i.e., DNA methyltransferases), global DNA methylation and gene-specific DNA methylation. To provide context, we precede this discussion with a review of the available evidence for an association between BC incidence and both dietary fat consumption and obesity. We also include a review of well-vetted BC biomarkers related to cytosine-guanine dinucleotides methylation and how they influence BC risk, prognosis, tumour characteristics and response to treatment. LINKED ARTICLES: This article is part of a themed section on The Pharmacology of Nutraceuticals. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v177.6/issuetoc.

The Potential for Plant-Based Diets to Promote Health Among Blacks Living in the United States

Plant-based diets are associated with reduced risks of various chronic diseases in the general population. However, it is unclear how these benefits translate to Blacks living in the United States, who are disproportionately burdened with heart disease, cancer, diabetes, obesity, and chronic kidney disease. The objectives of this study were to: (1) review the general evidence of plant-based diets and health outcomes; (2) discuss how this evidence translates to Blacks following a plant-based diet; and (3) provide recommendations and considerations for future studies in this area. Interestingly, although the evidence supporting plant-based diets in the general population is robust, little research has been done on Blacks specifically. However, the available data suggests that following a plant-based diet may reduce the risk of heart disease and possibly cancer in this population. More research is needed on cardiovascular disease risk factors, cancer subtypes, and other chronic diseases. Further, attention must be given to the unique individual, familial, communal, and environmental needs that Blacks who follow plant-based diets may have. Interventions must be culturally appropriate in order to achieve long-term success, and providing low-cost, flavorful, and nutritious options will be important.

Current Resources for Evidence-Based Practice, November 2019

A review of new resources to support the provision of evidence-based care for women and infants.

Dietary Fibre Protective against Colorectal Cancer Patients in Asia: A Meta-Analysis

BACKGROUND

The association between dietary fibre and colorectal cancer risk is controversial.

AIM

This systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to determine the dietary fibre protective against colorectal cancer patients in Asia.

METHODS

The authors conducted a meta-analysis of published research articles on dietary fibre protective against colorectal cancer patients in Asia published between January 2000 and March 2019 in the online article databases of PubMed, ProQuest and EBSCO. Pooled odds ratios (OR) were calculated with fixed and random-effect models. Publication bias was visually evaluated by using funnel plots and statistically assessed through Egger's and Begg's tests. Data were processed using Review Manager 5.3 (RevMan 5.3) and Stata version 14.2 (Stata Corporation).

RESULTS

This study reviewed 405 articles. There are 10 studies conducted a systematic review and continued with Meta-analysis of relevant data with several sample 49,964 patients. The results showed dietary fibre protective against colorectal cancer patients in Asia (OR = 0.66 [95% CI 0.56-0.77, p=0.008]). There was significant publication bias for studies included in dietary fibre protective against colorectal cancer patients in Asia.

CONCLUSION

This analysis confirmed dietary fibre protective against colorectal cancer patients in Asia.

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.