Nutrition and carcinogenesis: historical highlights and future prospects

Area of Science:

• Nutritional science
• Cancer research
• Molecular biology

Background:

• Historical reviews of nutritional factors influencing cancer incidence in animal models were conducted.
• The selection of factors was based on efficacy as inhibitors, current interest, mechanistic understanding, and human relevance.
• An exhaustive review of all nutritional impacts on cancer was not performed.

Observation:

• Several nutritional factors demonstrate efficacy in inhibiting cancer development in laboratory animals.
• Understanding the mechanisms of inhibition is crucial for advancing future cancer prevention research.
• Rapid, mechanism-based assays are emerging for identifying cancer-preventive food compounds.

Findings:

• Specific nutritional factors have been identified as potential cancer inhibitors.
• Knowledge of inhibitory mechanisms facilitates the development of targeted cancer prevention strategies.
• The list of identified dietary cancer inhibitors is expanding.

Implications:

• Future cancer prevention research shows promise due to advancements in assay technology.
• Translating findings from animal studies to human dietary practices is a key challenge.
• Promoting diets rich in protective food factors is essential for widespread human cancer prevention.