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Published on: December 19, 2019
Chemomodulatory Potential of Flaxseed Oil Against DMBA/Croton Oil-Induced Skin Carcinogenesis in Mice
Jyoti Sharma1, Ritu Singh1, P K Goyal2
1University of Rajasthan, Jaipur, India.
Abstract:
The present study was conducted to evaluate the potential of flaxseed oil to prevent chemically induced skin cancer in mice. Cancer was induced on 2-stage skin carcinogenesis model by single topical application of 7,12 dimethylbenz [a]anthracene (DMBA), as, initiator, and two weeks later it was promoted by croton oil treatment thrice a week on the dorsal surface of mice for 16 weeks. Flaxseed oil (FSO; 100µL/animal/d) was orally administered 1 week before and 1 week after DMBA application (Peri-initiation stage). The animals of the FSO-administered group showed a significant reduction in tumor incidence (76.67%), cumulative number of tumors (37), tumor yield (3.7), and tumor burden (4.81) when compared with the carcinogen-treated control animals. Biochemical parameters in skin and liver tissue such as LPO and phase I enzymes were significantly (P < .01) reduced in the FSO-treated experimental group, whereas the phase II enzymes (GST, DT-diaphorase) and antioxidant parameters (GSH, GPx, SOD, catalase, and vitamin C) exhibited a significant (P < .01) elevation when compared with the animals of the carcinogen-treated control group. Histopathological alterations in the carcinogen-treated control animals were also observed in the form of epidermal hyperplasia, keratinized pearl formation, and acanthosis in skin and tumors, whereas these were found to be reduced after FSO administration. The results of the present study demonstrate that the oral administration of FSO has the potential to modulate the levels of LPO, antioxidants, and detoxification enzymes in the DMBA-croton oil-induced skin carcinogenesis in mice.
Insights
Flaxseed oil (FSO) consumption significantly reduced chemically induced skin cancer in mice by lowering tumor incidence and improving antioxidant and detoxification enzyme levels. This natural compound shows promise in preventing skin carcinogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Chemoprevention
- Dermatology
Background:
- Skin cancer is a significant health concern.
- Chemically induced skin cancer models are crucial for evaluating preventive agents.
- Flaxseed oil is recognized for its potential health benefits.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the chemopreventive potential of flaxseed oil (FSO) against chemically induced skin cancer in a mouse model.
- To evaluate the effects of FSO on biochemical and histopathological alterations associated with skin carcinogenesis.
Main Methods:
- A two-stage skin carcinogenesis model was employed using 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) and croton oil.
- Flaxseed oil (FSO) was administered orally during the peri-initiation stage.
- Tumor incidence, yield, burden, and biochemical markers (LPO, phase I/II enzymes, antioxidants) were assessed.
Main Results:
- FSO administration significantly reduced tumor incidence (76.67%), tumor number, yield, and burden.
- FSO treatment led to decreased lipid peroxidation (LPO) and phase I enzymes.
- FSO significantly increased phase II enzymes (GST, DT-diaphorase) and antioxidant levels (GSH, GPx, SOD, catalase, vitamin C).
- Histopathological analysis showed reduced epidermal hyperplasia and tumor formation in FSO-treated mice.
Conclusions:
- Oral administration of flaxseed oil demonstrates significant chemopreventive effects against DMBA-croton oil-induced skin carcinogenesis in mice.
- FSO modulates key biochemical pathways, including oxidative stress and detoxification, thereby inhibiting skin cancer development.
- Flaxseed oil is a promising natural agent for the prevention of skin cancer.
