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Initiation and post-initiation chemopreventive effects of diallyl sulfide in esophageal carcinogenesis
M J Wargovich1, O Imada, L C Stephens
1Department of Medical Oncology, University of Texas, M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston 77030.
Abstract:
Diallyl sulfide (DAS), one of a number of organosulfur compounds accounting for the flavor and smell associated with garlic, has been shown to inhibit a number of chemically induced forms of cancer. In this study, DAS was examined for its chemopreventive effects in both the initiation and post-initiation phases of nitrosomethylbenzylamine-induced esophageal carcinogenesis in the Sprague-Dawley rat. Although highly inhibitory during initiation, DAS is ineffective when given after the carcinogen. DAS, though not effective as a preventive in post-initiation, was not found to promote esophageal carcinogenesis.
Insights
Diallyl sulfide (DAS), a garlic compound, effectively prevents esophageal cancer initiation in rats. However, DAS is ineffective during the post-initiation phase and does not promote cancer development.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Chemoprevention
- Toxicology
Background:
- Organosulfur compounds, like diallyl sulfide (DAS) from garlic, show potential anticancer properties.
- Esophageal carcinogenesis is a complex process involving initiation and post-initiation phases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the chemopreventive efficacy of diallyl sulfide (DAS) during different stages of esophageal cancer development.
- To evaluate the role of DAS in both the initiation and post-initiation phases of nitrosomethylbenzylamine-induced esophageal carcinogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a Sprague-Dawley rat model for nitrosomethylbenzylamine-induced esophageal carcinogenesis.
- Administered diallyl sulfide (DAS) during the initiation phase (before carcinogen exposure).
- Administered diallyl sulfide (DAS) during the post-initiation phase (after carcinogen exposure).
Main Results:
- Diallyl sulfide (DAS) demonstrated significant inhibition of esophageal carcinogenesis when administered during the initiation phase.
- DAS was found to be ineffective in preventing esophageal cancer when administered during the post-initiation phase.
- Diallyl sulfide (DAS) did not promote esophageal carcinogenesis in the post-initiation phase.
Conclusions:
- Diallyl sulfide (DAS) exhibits chemopreventive effects primarily during the initiation stage of esophageal carcinogenesis.
- DAS is not effective as a post-initiation preventive agent but also does not act as a promoter.
- Findings suggest a specific window of opportunity for DAS in cancer chemoprevention.