Naringenin Suppresses Chemically Induced Skin Cancer in Two-Stage Skin Carcinogenesis Mouse Model

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Dermatology
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Naringenin, a flavonoid found in citrus fruits, possesses various health benefits, including skin protection against UV radiation, thermal damage, and allergies.
• While naringenin's skin-protective properties are known, its in vivo effect on skin cancer prevention remained unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the chemopreventive potential of naringenin against chemically induced skin cancer in a mouse model.
• To evaluate the efficacy of naringenin in preventing and treating skin papillomagenesis.

Main Methods:

• A two-stage skin carcinogenesis model using DMBA and croton oil in Swiss albino mice was employed.
• Chemo preventive effects were assessed through morphological, histopathological, and biochemical analyses.
• Naringenin was administered orally in both pre-treatment (anti-initiation) and post-treatment (anti-promotion) settings.

Main Results:

• Oral naringenin administration significantly reduced the number and size of skin papillomas in mice.
• Histopathological examination confirmed that naringenin suppressed papillomagenesis.
• Biochemical analysis indicated a decrease in glyoxalase-1 enzyme activity and an increase in carbonyl content, with more pronounced effects in the anti-initiation group.

Conclusions:

• Naringenin exhibits significant anti-tumor activity in a two-stage mouse skin carcinogenesis model.
• The findings suggest that dietary intake of citrus fruits, rich in naringenin, could contribute to the suppression of skin cancer.