Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 4, 2026
![Chemical-Induced Skin Carcinogenesis Model Using Dimethylbenz[a]Anthracene and 12-O-Tetradecanoyl Phorbol-13-Acetate (DMBA-TPA)](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcloudfront.jove.com%2FCDNSource%2Fteasers%2F60445.jpg&w=3840&q=50)
Chemical-Induced Skin Carcinogenesis Model Using Dimethylbenz[a]Anthracene and 12-O-Tetradecanoyl Phorbol-13-Acetate (DMBA-TPA)
Published on: December 19, 2019
Chemoprevention of skin cancer through natural agents
1Department of Dermatology, Case Western Reserve University and The Research Institute of University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, Ohio 44106, USA.
Abstract:
To reduce the occurrence of skin cancers, the use of sunscreens and wearing protective clothing while in the sun are emphasized. These are important strategies, but sadly these efforts are only partially effective. Thus, the development of novel strategies to reduce the occurrence of skin cancer is a highly desirable goal. One attractive approach is through chemoprevention which is the use of naturally occurring agents or synthetic compounds to prevent the occurrence and subsequent development of cancer. The ideal chemopreventive agent(s) for use for prevention of skin cancer must be available in its active form with none or minimal toxicity and a known mechanism of action. A wide range of synthetic and naturally occurring agents have been identified as a rich source of skin cancer chemopreventive agents. For a variety of reasons, there is a greater emphasis on the use of naturally occurring compounds for skin cancer chemoprevention, and many such agents have found a place in skin care products. This review focuses on the use of naturally occurring agents present in the diet and beverages consumed by humans for the chemoprevention of skin cancer.
Insights
Naturally occurring compounds in diet and beverages show promise for skin cancer chemoprevention. These agents offer a safer, effective alternative to traditional sun protection methods for reducing skin cancer risk.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Sunscreen and protective clothing are common but partially effective skin cancer prevention strategies.
- Novel approaches are needed to reduce skin cancer incidence.
- Chemoprevention, using natural or synthetic compounds, is a promising strategy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review naturally occurring agents from diet and beverages for skin cancer chemoprevention.
- To highlight the potential of these agents as an alternative or adjunct to current methods.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on dietary and beverage compounds with chemopreventive properties against skin cancer.
- Analysis of mechanisms of action, toxicity, and availability of these natural agents.
Main Results:
- Numerous natural compounds from foods and drinks exhibit potential for skin cancer chemoprevention.
- These agents often possess minimal toxicity and well-defined mechanisms of action.
- Many are already incorporated into skincare products.
Conclusions:
- Dietary and beverage-derived natural compounds represent a valuable resource for skin cancer chemoprevention.
- Further research and application of these agents could significantly impact skin cancer prevention strategies.
Related Concept Videos
Cancer Prevention
Some...
Cancer Prevention
Some...
Skin Cancer
Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): BCC is the most common type of skin cancer, accounting for about 80% of cases. It typically develops in...
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
Cancer Vaccines
Cancer vaccines come in two categories: preventive (prophylactic) and treatment (active). Preventive vaccines, such as the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, protect against viruses that cause certain...
Cancer

