Selenium supplementation reduced oxidative DNA damage in adnexectomized BRCA1 mutations carriers
Tomasz Dziaman1, Tomasz Huzarski, Daniel Gackowski
1Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Bydgoszcz, Poland.
Summary
Selenium supplementation may reduce oxidative DNA damage and cancer risk in BRCA1 mutation carriers. This study found lower DNA damage markers and fewer cancer incidents in supplemented patients undergoing adnexectomy.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Oncology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- BRCA1 gene mutations are linked to increased cancer risk, potentially due to impaired DNA repair.
- Oxidative stress and DNA damage, specifically 8-oxodG, are implicated in cancer development.
- Selenium possesses antioxidant and anticancer properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of selenium supplementation on oxidative DNA damage in BRCA1 mutation carriers.
- To assess whether selenium can mitigate DNA damage and potentially reduce cancer incidence in this high-risk group.
Main Methods:
- A double-blinded, placebo-controlled study involving BRCA1 mutation carriers.
- Measurement of 8-oxodG levels in leukocyte DNA.
- Quantification of urinary 8-oxodG and 8-oxoGua excretion.
Main Results:
- BRCA1 mutation carriers exhibited higher levels of 8-oxodG in leukocyte DNA.
- Selenium supplementation significantly decreased 8-oxodG levels in BRCA1 carriers who underwent adnexectomy.
- Increased urinary 8-oxoGua excretion was observed in the selenium-supplemented group, suggesting enhanced base excision repair (BER).
- A reduction in cancer incidence was noted in selenium-supplemented BRCA1 mutation carriers.
Conclusions:
- BRCA1 deficiency contributes to oxidative DNA damage (8-oxodG) accumulation, a potential factor in cancer development.
- Selenium supplementation may enhance DNA repair mechanisms (BER) and reduce oxidative DNA damage in BRCA1 carriers.
- Selenium supplementation could potentially lower the risk of breast cancer in BRCA1 mutation carriers, particularly those who have undergone adnexectomy.
