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M. WARGOVICH, South Carolina Cancer Center, Univ. of South Carolina, School of Medicine, Fourteen Medical Park Drive, Suite 500, Columbia, SC 29203 At least 15 studies in the literature associate the daily consumption of aspirin or related Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) with a 50% reduction in risk for colorectal cancer. At first inspection, this finding might be considered an inexpensive and practical way to prevent colon cancer in the general public. NSAIDs, however, even aspirin, are toxic with ulceration the greatest side effect if they are overused. Our group has sought to find plant-based sources of anti-inflammatory compounds that are relatively safe to use and could provide avenues for long term cancer prevention. Herbal supplements seem to be a rich source of such agents. We have engaged in studies of tea (Camillia senensis) for prevention of colon cancer. Initial data indicate that at least one tea catechin, EGCG can remodulate corrupted cell signaling pathways in tumor cells. The pathway seems to involve regulation of cyclooxygenase and production of prostanoids. Among herbal supplements, we have found Ginkgo biloba and American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) to suppress cyclooxgenase activity in colon cancer cells and reduce tumor yield in a transgenic animal model for colon cancer. We have also found that the bioflavonoid, quercetin, and compounds from milk thistle (Silybum marianum) to suppress tumorigenesis in a rat model for colon cancer at different stages of carcinogenesis. Quercetin is a strong inducer of apoptosis whereas silymarin may induce tumor cell death by an entirely different mechanism. Taken together, it is clear that there is great potential for use of plant-based anti-inflammatories in cancer prevention. The advantage of far lower toxicity coupled with potential efficacy predicts that new avenues of cancer chemoprevention are on the horizon.
Session 10, Natural antioxidants in herbs and spices
2005 IFT Annual Meeting, July 15-20 - New Orleans, Louisiana |