Sulforaphane Attenuates AOM/DSS-Induced Colorectal Tumorigenesis in Mice via Inhibition of Intestinal Inflammation

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Sulforaphane (SFN), a cruciferous plant compound, shows promise for cancer prevention and possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
• Colitis-associated carcinogenesis (CAC) is a significant health concern, necessitating novel therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the antitumor potential of sulforaphane in colitis-associated carcinogenesis (CAC).
• To evaluate SFN's effects on the tumor microenvironment (TME) and immune cell function in a mouse model.

Main Methods:

• Established AOM/DSS and DSS-induced mouse models for CAC and chronic colitis.
• Administered SFN for 10 weeks, followed by macroscopic and histological examination of tumors.
• Quantified immune cells, cytokines (IL-1β, IL-10), and assessed CD8+ T cell activity in the TME.
• Investigated SFN's effects on colon cell lines.

Main Results:

• SFN treatment significantly reduced tumor volume and suppressed myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) expansion.
• SFN decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β and IL-10 levels in serum.
• SFN enhanced CD8+ T cell antitumor activity and attenuated intestinal inflammation.
• SFN significantly reduced AOM/DSS-induced intestinal tumorigenesis and progression.

Conclusions:

• Sulforaphane demonstrates potent antitumor effects against colitis-associated carcinogenesis.
• SFN reshapes the inflammatory microenvironment, suppressing tumorigenesis and progression.
• SFN holds potential as a therapeutic agent for inflammatory bowel disease and associated cancers.