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Prevention of cancer and cardiovascular diseases: a common strategy?
J M Argilés1, N Carbó, P Costelli
1Departament de Bioquímica i Biologia Molecular, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain. argiles@porthos.bio.ub.es
Abstract:
Cancer and cardiovascular diseases are two pathological states involving uncontrolled proliferation of either tumor or vascular smooth muscle cells. Interestingly, both types of disease can be prevented by the same type of chemical agent, such as marine polyunsaturated fatty acids, sulfur-containing compounds present in garlic, and wine polyphenols, among others, which seem to be fairly effective in the prevention of certain types of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. This is supported by numerous epidemiological studies and laboratory experiments involving animal models. It is therefore suggested that the mode of action of these compounds interfering with the development of these pathological states share some common trends. This could be taken into consideration in future studies related to the molecular mechanisms leading to these diseases as well as with the chemopreventive potential of some dietary components.
Insights
Certain dietary compounds, like marine polyunsaturated fatty acids and garlic
Area of Science:
- Oncology and Cardiovascular Science
- Nutritional Biochemistry and Chemoprevention
Background:
- Cancer and cardiovascular diseases involve uncontrolled cell proliferation.
- These conditions share similarities in cellular behavior.
- Dietary components show potential in preventing both disease types.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the common preventive mechanisms of dietary agents against cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
- To highlight shared trends in the mode of action for chemopreventive compounds.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies.
- Analysis of laboratory experiments using animal models.
- Investigation into the molecular mechanisms of dietary components.
Main Results:
- Marine polyunsaturated fatty acids, garlic compounds, and wine polyphenols show preventive effects.
- These agents are effective against certain cancers and cardiovascular diseases.
- Evidence suggests shared modes of action for these compounds.
Conclusions:
- Common preventive strategies may exist for cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
- Dietary components offer potential chemopreventive benefits through shared mechanisms.
- Further research into molecular pathways is warranted for therapeutic development.