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Dietary isothiocyanates, GSTM1, GSTT1, NAT2 polymorphisms and bladder cancer risk

Hua Zhao1, Jie Lin, H Barton Grossman

  • 1Department of Epidemiology, The University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1155 Hermann Pressler Boulevard, Houston, TX 77030, USA.

International Journal of Cancer
|February 10, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Dietary intake of isothiocyanates (ITCs) from cruciferous vegetables was linked to a reduced risk of bladder cancer. This study highlights the protective role of ITCs, especially in specific demographic groups.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Nutritional Science
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Isothiocyanates (ITCs) are bioactive compounds found in cruciferous vegetables, known for their potential anticarcinogenic properties.
  • ITCs influence carcinogen metabolism by modulating cytochrome P-450 and Phase II detoxifying enzymes, and can induce apoptosis.
  • Previous research suggests ITCs may have a protective effect against bladder cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between dietary intake of ITCs and the risk of developing bladder cancer.
  • To evaluate the role of genetic polymorphisms in GSTM1, GSTT1, and NAT2 in modifying the relationship between ITC intake and bladder cancer risk.

Main Methods:

  • A case-control study involving 697 bladder cancer cases and 708 healthy controls.
  • Data collection included in-person interviews with epidemiologic and food frequency questionnaires to assess dietary intake and demographic information.
  • Genotyping for GSTM1, GSTT1, and NAT2 polymorphisms was performed.

Main Results:

  • Median daily ITC intake was significantly lower in bladder cancer cases compared to controls (0.23 vs. 0.33, p < 0.001).
  • Higher ITC intake was associated with a 29% decreased risk of bladder cancer (OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.57, 0.89).
  • The protective effect of ITCs was more pronounced in older individuals, men, ever smokers, and heavy smokers. NAT2 slow acetylators showed an increased risk in Caucasians, but ITC's protective effect was not modified by GSTM1, GSTT1, or NAT2 genotypes.

Conclusions:

  • Dietary consumption of isothiocyanates from cruciferous vegetables is associated with a reduced risk of bladder cancer.
  • This study provides the first epidemiological evidence supporting the protective role of ITCs against bladder cancer.
  • Genetic polymorphisms in GSTM1, GSTT1, and NAT2 do not appear to modify the protective effect of ITCs on bladder cancer risk.

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