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Chemical-Induced Skin Carcinogenesis Model Using Dimethylbenz[a]Anthracene and 12-O-Tetradecanoyl Phorbol-13-Acetate DMBA-TPA
Published on: December 19, 2019
Rethinking Environmental Carcinogenesis
Margaret Kripke1, Julia Green Brody2, Ernest Hawk1
1The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.
Abstract:
The 2010 report of the President's Cancer Panel concluded that the burden of cancer from chemical exposures is substantial, while the programs for testing and regulation of carcinogens remain inadequate. New research on the role of early life exposures and the ability of chemicals to act via multiple biological pathways, including immunosuppression, inflammation, and endocrine disruption as well as mutagenesis, further supports the potential for chemicals and chemical mixtures to influence disease. Epidemiologic observations, such as higher leukemia incidence in children living near roadways and industrial sources of air pollution, and new in vitro technologies that decode carcinogenesis at the molecular level, illustrate the diverse evidence that primary prevention of some cancers may be achieved by reducing harmful chemical exposures. The path forward requires cross-disciplinary approaches, increased environmental research investment, system-wide collaboration to develop safer economic alternatives, and community engagement to support evidence-informed action. Engagement by cancer researchers to integrate environmental risk factors into prevention initiatives holds tremendous promise for reducing the rates of disease.See all articles in this
Insights
Reducing harmful chemical exposures is crucial for cancer prevention, as environmental factors significantly impact disease risk. Early life exposures and chemical mixtures can influence cancer development through various biological pathways.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- The President's Cancer Panel highlighted substantial cancer burden from chemical exposures and inadequate regulatory programs.
- Emerging research indicates early life exposures and chemical mixtures influence disease via immunosuppression, inflammation, endocrine disruption, and mutagenesis.
Discussion:
- Epidemiologic data show increased leukemia incidence in children near pollution sources.
- Novel in vitro technologies decode carcinogenesis at the molecular level, supporting prevention strategies.
Key Insights:
- Primary cancer prevention may be achieved by reducing harmful chemical exposures.
- Chemicals and their mixtures pose significant risks, affecting multiple biological pathways.
Outlook:
- Cross-disciplinary approaches and increased environmental research funding are essential.
- Collaboration, development of safer alternatives, and community engagement are vital for evidence-informed action.
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