Advanced Glycation End Products: A Promising Prognostic Indicator in Breast Cancer Patients

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) form through long-term reactions between proteins/lipids and sugars, accumulating in tissues and contributing to disease. AGEs are linked to cancer progression, with studies showing associations with colon and pancreatic cancer.

This study investigates the relationship between AGEs and breast cancer. Stage 2-3 breast cancer patients and age-matched healthy controls were included. Exclusion criteria were diabetes, renal/liver disease, chronic inflammation, and infection. Blood samples were collected from patients pre-surgery and 48 h post-surgery and once from fasting controls. Glyoxal (GO) and methylglyoxal (MGO) levels were measured via liquid chromatography. A total of 60 breast cancer patients and 21 controls participated.

GO and MGO levels were significantly higher in patients than controls (p < 0.001) and decreased post-surgery. No significant differences were found between breast cancer subtypes. AGE levels did not correlate with age, lymph node involvement, or menopause status.

The significant drop in AGE levels post-surgery suggests tumor burden influences AGE levels. While their predictive value remains uncertain, AGEs could serve as prognostic biomarkers. Monitoring AGEs may encourage lifestyle changes, and rising levels might indicate cancer recurrence or progression.