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Polymalic Acid-based Nano Biopolymers for Targeting of Multiple Tumor Markers: An Opportunity for Personalized Medicine?
Published on: June 13, 2014
Targeting polyamines and inflammation for cancer prevention
Naveen Babbar1, Eugene W Gerner
1Research and Development, Osmetech Molecular Diagnostic, Pasadena, CA 91105, USA. naveen.babbar@osmetech.com
Summary
Targeting polyamine synthesis and inflammation may prevent cancer. A study showed difluoromethylornithine (DFMO) and sulindac reduced colon polyps and prostate cancer risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Increased polyamine synthesis and inflammation are linked to intraepithelial neoplasia, precursors to human cancers.
- Targeting polyamine metabolism and inflammation shows promise for preventing cancers like colon, prostate, and skin.
- Genetic variants in polyamine biosynthetic genes correlate with colon and prostate cancer risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the efficacy of combined strategies targeting polyamines and inflammation for cancer risk reduction.
- To review clinical trial data on polyamine synthesis inhibitors and anti-inflammatory drugs in cancer prevention.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical trials involving difluoromethylornithine (DFMO), a polyamine synthesis inhibitor.
- Analysis of studies combining DFMO with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like sulindac.
- Examination of genetic epidemiology data linking gene variants to cancer risk.
Main Results:
- DFMO treatment reduced prostate volume and PSA doubling time in men at risk for prostate cancer.
- A combination trial of DFMO and sulindac in patients with colon polyps showed significant reductions in adenoma formation.
- The 3-year treatment demonstrated a 70% reduction in all colon adenomas and over 90% reduction in advanced/multiple metachronous adenomas.
Conclusions:
- Combined strategies targeting both polyamine metabolism and inflammation are effective in reducing cancer risk factors.
- These combination approaches hold potential for the prevention of various human cancers.
- Further research into dual-targeting prevention strategies is warranted for broader cancer prevention applications.
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