BALTIMORE, Nov 03, 2009 (ASCRIBE NEWS via COMTEX) -- Men with lower cholesterol are less likely than those with higher levels to develop high-grade prostate cancer - an aggressive form of the disease with a poorer prognosis, according to results of a Johns Hopkins collaborative study. In a prospective study of more than 5,000 U.S. men, epidemiologists say they now have evidence that having lower levels of heart-clogging fat may cut a man's risk of this form of cancer by nearly 60 percent.
"For many reasons, we know that it's good to have a cholesterol level within the normal range," says Elizabeth Platz, Sc.D., M.P.H., associate professor at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and co-director of the cancer prevention and control program at the Johns Hopkins Kimmel Cancer Center. "Now, we have more evidence that among the benefits of low cholesterol may be a lower risk for potentially deadly prostate cancers."
Normal range is defined as less than 200 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter of blood) of total cholesterol.
Platz and her colleagues found similar results in a study first published in 2008, and in 2006, she linked use of cholesterol-lowering statin drugs to lower risk of advanced prostate cancer.
For the current study, Platz, members of the Southwest Oncology Group, and other collaborators analyzed data from 5,586 men aged 55 and older enrolled in the Prostate Cancer Prevention Trial from 1993 to 1996. Some 1,251 men were diagnosed with prostate cancer during the study period.
Men with cholesterol levels lower than 200 mg/dL had a 59 percent lower risk of developing high-grade prostate cancers, which tend to grow and spread rapidly. High-grade cancers are identified by a pathological ranking called the Gleason score. Scores at the highest end of the scale, between eight and 10, indicate cancers considered the most worrisome to pathologists who examine samples of the diseased prostate under the microscope.
In Platz's study, cholesterol levels had no significant effect on the entire spectrum of prostate cancer incidence, only those that were high-grade, she says.
Platz cautions that, while the group took into account factors that could bias the results, such as smoking history, weight, family history of prostate cancer, and dietary cholesterol, other things could have affected their results. One example is whether men in the study were taking cholesterol-lowering drugs at the time of the blood collections, a data point the researchers expect to analyze soon.
Results of the current study are expected to be published online Nov. 3 in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. Also in the journal is an accompanying paper from the National Cancer Institute showing that lower cholesterol in men conferred a 15 percent decrease in overall cancer cases.
"Cholesterol may affect cancer cells at a level where it influences key signaling pathways controlling cell survival," says Platz. "Cancer cells use these survival pathways to evade the normal cycle of cell life and death."
She says that targeting cholesterol metabolism may be one route to treating and preventing the disease, but this remains to be tested.
Funding for the study was provided by the National Cancer Institute.
Authors of the study include Cathee Till, Phyllis J. Goodman, Marian L. Neuhouser and Alan R. Kristal from the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center; Howard L. Parnes, William D. Figg, and Demetrius Albanes from the National Cancer Institute; Eric A. Klein from the Cleveland Clinic; and Ian M. Thompson Jr., from the University of Texas Health Sciences Center.
Showing posts with label cancer. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cancer. Show all posts
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Soy Shows Promise
An article featured in the December 15, 2009 issue of the journal Cancer Research reveals the discovery of a team at Children's Hospital & Research Center in Oakland, California of compounds occurring in soy that could help prevent and possibly treat colon cancer.
Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute Cancer Center director Julie Saba, MD, PhD and her associates discovered that natural lipid molecules called sphingadienes may be responsible for some of the cancer-preventive benefits found for soy products. They first identified the compounds in fruit flies and found that they had the effect of inducing the death of mutant cells. The molecules were determined to be similar to sphingadienes that occur in soy sphingolipids.
When the researchers compared the effects of sphingadienes from flies or soy with those of another soy compound in experiments with cultured human colon cancer cells, sphingadienes were demonstrated to reduce cell viability dose and time-dependently by increasing apoptosis (programmed cell death) and autophagy, while the other soy compound was less effective. Nonmalignant human colon cells were shown to be less sensitive to sphingadienes' effects. In another experiment utilizing a mouse model of intestinal tumorigenesis, animals given sphingadienes averaged 35 percent fewer polyps (benign colon tumors that can become cancerous in humans), and polyps tended to be smaller compared to those detected in untreated animals.
"It's very exciting," enthused Dr Saba. "First, we are encouraged to find a natural molecule that could be consumed through soy products as a strategy to help prevent colon cancer. Second, this information is important because we can build on our understanding of the structure and metabolism of sphingadienes in terms of developing new drugs to treat people who already have colon cancer. Uncovering how sphingadienes exert their effects also helps us to find the most likely combinations of drugs that may work synergistically to eliminate cancer cells and mutant cells that could give rise to cancer."
"I would be comfortable recommending soy products as a change in the diet that could protect against cancer," she added. "The more that soy is studied, the more of these protective agents are found, so it's a very healthy diet choice."
Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute Cancer Center director Julie Saba, MD, PhD and her associates discovered that natural lipid molecules called sphingadienes may be responsible for some of the cancer-preventive benefits found for soy products. They first identified the compounds in fruit flies and found that they had the effect of inducing the death of mutant cells. The molecules were determined to be similar to sphingadienes that occur in soy sphingolipids.
When the researchers compared the effects of sphingadienes from flies or soy with those of another soy compound in experiments with cultured human colon cancer cells, sphingadienes were demonstrated to reduce cell viability dose and time-dependently by increasing apoptosis (programmed cell death) and autophagy, while the other soy compound was less effective. Nonmalignant human colon cells were shown to be less sensitive to sphingadienes' effects. In another experiment utilizing a mouse model of intestinal tumorigenesis, animals given sphingadienes averaged 35 percent fewer polyps (benign colon tumors that can become cancerous in humans), and polyps tended to be smaller compared to those detected in untreated animals.
"It's very exciting," enthused Dr Saba. "First, we are encouraged to find a natural molecule that could be consumed through soy products as a strategy to help prevent colon cancer. Second, this information is important because we can build on our understanding of the structure and metabolism of sphingadienes in terms of developing new drugs to treat people who already have colon cancer. Uncovering how sphingadienes exert their effects also helps us to find the most likely combinations of drugs that may work synergistically to eliminate cancer cells and mutant cells that could give rise to cancer."
"I would be comfortable recommending soy products as a change in the diet that could protect against cancer," she added. "The more that soy is studied, the more of these protective agents are found, so it's a very healthy diet choice."
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
The forgotten Vitamin
This “forgotten” vitamin can prevent cancer and destroy certain types of cancer cells.
Its anti-cancer properties were first discovered by accident.
Researchers in Japan were studying this vitamin’s role in the prevention of bone loss in women with cirrhosis.
It’s well known that those with cirrhosis of the liver due to viral infection (like Hepatitis C, for example) are at a much higher risk of developing cancer.
The study followed 40 women over the span of two years. One group supplemented with 45 mg a day of this vitamin. The other did not. Almost half (47%) of the women in the placebo group developed liver cancer. But here’s what amazed the researchers: The rate of liver cancer in the group of women taking this vitamin was less than 10%!1
Preventing liver cancer isn’t the only thing this vitamin can do.
Another study, published in the Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology, found this vitamin can literally kill off leukemia, pancreatic and ovarian cancer cells.2,3 It does this by programming the cells to “self destruct.”
And to think, this vitamin hasn’t been given much attention for almost a century.
I’m talking about vitamin K.
For decades, it’s only been thought of as a blood coagulant. Most doctors overlook its significance and the critical roles it plays in your body.
Truth is vitamin K is one of the most unique vitamins of all. It is produced in your gut by “good” bacteria.
Normally, you get your daily requirement through a combination of diet and what your body produces.
And that’s good news. It’s pretty easy to incorporate vitamin K-rich foods into your diet.
Here’s a quick list*:
Food (1 Cup Serving Size) Vitamin K (mcg) Food (1 Cup Serving Size) Vitamin K (mcg/100g)
Spinach 1,027
Collard Greens 836
Kale 1,062
Mustard Greens 419
Broccoli 220
Beet Greens 697
Brussels Sprouts 218
Asparagus 144
Turnip Greens 851
Sauerkraut 135
Egg Yolk, Raw 15.5
Ground Beef 8
Raw Chicken Liver 12.6
Barbeque Chicken 22
*(source: USDA.Gov)
It’s most common in dark, leafy greens. But you can get smaller amounts of vitamin K in organ meats such as chicken liver and in raw eggs. You can also take a supplement.
Its anti-cancer properties were first discovered by accident.
Researchers in Japan were studying this vitamin’s role in the prevention of bone loss in women with cirrhosis.
It’s well known that those with cirrhosis of the liver due to viral infection (like Hepatitis C, for example) are at a much higher risk of developing cancer.
The study followed 40 women over the span of two years. One group supplemented with 45 mg a day of this vitamin. The other did not. Almost half (47%) of the women in the placebo group developed liver cancer. But here’s what amazed the researchers: The rate of liver cancer in the group of women taking this vitamin was less than 10%!1
Preventing liver cancer isn’t the only thing this vitamin can do.
Another study, published in the Journal of Cancer Research and Clinical Oncology, found this vitamin can literally kill off leukemia, pancreatic and ovarian cancer cells.2,3 It does this by programming the cells to “self destruct.”
And to think, this vitamin hasn’t been given much attention for almost a century.
I’m talking about vitamin K.
For decades, it’s only been thought of as a blood coagulant. Most doctors overlook its significance and the critical roles it plays in your body.
Truth is vitamin K is one of the most unique vitamins of all. It is produced in your gut by “good” bacteria.
Normally, you get your daily requirement through a combination of diet and what your body produces.
And that’s good news. It’s pretty easy to incorporate vitamin K-rich foods into your diet.
Here’s a quick list*:
Food (1 Cup Serving Size) Vitamin K (mcg) Food (1 Cup Serving Size) Vitamin K (mcg/100g)
Spinach 1,027
Collard Greens 836
Kale 1,062
Mustard Greens 419
Broccoli 220
Beet Greens 697
Brussels Sprouts 218
Asparagus 144
Turnip Greens 851
Sauerkraut 135
Egg Yolk, Raw 15.5
Ground Beef 8
Raw Chicken Liver 12.6
Barbeque Chicken 22
*(source: USDA.Gov)
It’s most common in dark, leafy greens. But you can get smaller amounts of vitamin K in organ meats such as chicken liver and in raw eggs. You can also take a supplement.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
Low cholesterol not linked to cancer
Low cholesterol may be a result of underlying cancer, challenging a concern that lower total cholesterol may lead to cancer, a U.S. researcher suggests.
Dr. Demetrius Albanes of the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Md., and colleagues looked at data from 29,093 men from the Alpha-Tocopheral, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention Study.
Low cholesterol was linked -- as in previous studies -- to an 18 percent higher risk of cancer overall. However, this risk disappeared when the researchers excluded cases in the early years after the original blood draw. Also, higher levels of high-density lipoprotein, the "good" cholesterol, were associated with a 14 percent decreased risk of cancer even after excluding nine years of early cases.
"Our study affirms that lower total cholesterol may be caused by undiagnosed cancer," Albanes said in a statement. "In terms of public health message, we found that higher levels of 'good cholesterol' seem to be protective for all cancers, which is in line with recommendations for cardiovascular health."
The finding is published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention.
Dr. Demetrius Albanes of the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Md., and colleagues looked at data from 29,093 men from the Alpha-Tocopheral, Beta-Carotene Cancer Prevention Study.
Low cholesterol was linked -- as in previous studies -- to an 18 percent higher risk of cancer overall. However, this risk disappeared when the researchers excluded cases in the early years after the original blood draw. Also, higher levels of high-density lipoprotein, the "good" cholesterol, were associated with a 14 percent decreased risk of cancer even after excluding nine years of early cases.
"Our study affirms that lower total cholesterol may be caused by undiagnosed cancer," Albanes said in a statement. "In terms of public health message, we found that higher levels of 'good cholesterol' seem to be protective for all cancers, which is in line with recommendations for cardiovascular health."
The finding is published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Vaginal Infection linked to Prostate Cancer
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) and Brigham and Women's Hospital researchers has found a strong association between the common sexually transmitted infection, Trichomonas vaginalis, and risk of advanced and lethal prostate cancer in men (see also Harvard School of Public Health).
The study appears online on September 9, 2009, on the Journal of the National Cancer Institute website and will appear in a later print edition.
"Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in western countries, and the second leading cause of cancer-specific mortality. Identifying modifiable risk factors for the lethal form of prostate cancer offers the greatest opportunity to reduce suffering from this disease," said Jennifer Stark, an HSPH researcher and lead author of the study.
One potential risk factor is inflammation, which appears to play an important role in the development and progression of prostate cancer, but the source of inflammation of the prostate is not clear. Trichomonas vaginalis, which infects an estimated 174 million people globally each year and is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection, can infect the prostate and could be a source of inflammation. With respect to prostate cancer prevention, it is noteworthy that up to three-quarters of men infected with Trichomonas vaginalis may not realize they are infected, since they may not have any symptoms.
A previous study had found an association between risk of prostate cancer and Trichomonas vaginalis infection, but was not large enough to determine if there was a link between the infection and advanced and lethal disease.
In the present study, the researchers analyzed blood samples from 673 men with prostate cancer who were participants in the Physicians' Health Study and compared infection status based on antibody levels to 673 control subjects who were not diagnosed with prostate cancer. The blood samples were collected in 1982, on average a decade before cancer diagnosis.
The results showed that Trichomonas vaginalis infection was associated with a more than two-fold increase in the risk of prostate cancer that was advanced stage at diagnosis, and a nearly three-fold increase in prostate cancer that would result in death.
"The fact that we found a strong association between serologic evidence of infection with Trichomonas vaginalis, a potentially modifiable risk factor, and risk of advanced and lethal disease represents a step forward in prostate cancer, especially given that so few risk factors for aggressive prostate cancer have been identified," said Lorelei Mucci, assistant professor in the department of epidemiology at HSPH and senior author of the study.
The authors note that further research needs to be done to confirm the findings. If confirmed, the findings from the large-scale, prospective study would identify infections as one of the few known modifiable factors for aggressive prostate cancer. Moreover, since the infection is easily treated with an inexpensive antibiotic regimen, the results from the study suggest that prevention or early treatment of Trichomonas vaginalis infection could be a target for prostate cancer prevention.
Keywords: Infectious Disease, Inflammation, Oncology, Prostate Cancer, Prostatic Neoplasms, Public Health, Sexually Transmitted Disease, Trichomonas Vaginitis, Trichomoniasis, Harvard School of Public Health.
This article was prepared by Disease Risk Factor Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2009, Disease Risk Factor Week via NewsRx.com.
The study appears online on September 9, 2009, on the Journal of the National Cancer Institute website and will appear in a later print edition.
"Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in western countries, and the second leading cause of cancer-specific mortality. Identifying modifiable risk factors for the lethal form of prostate cancer offers the greatest opportunity to reduce suffering from this disease," said Jennifer Stark, an HSPH researcher and lead author of the study.
One potential risk factor is inflammation, which appears to play an important role in the development and progression of prostate cancer, but the source of inflammation of the prostate is not clear. Trichomonas vaginalis, which infects an estimated 174 million people globally each year and is the most common non-viral sexually transmitted infection, can infect the prostate and could be a source of inflammation. With respect to prostate cancer prevention, it is noteworthy that up to three-quarters of men infected with Trichomonas vaginalis may not realize they are infected, since they may not have any symptoms.
A previous study had found an association between risk of prostate cancer and Trichomonas vaginalis infection, but was not large enough to determine if there was a link between the infection and advanced and lethal disease.
In the present study, the researchers analyzed blood samples from 673 men with prostate cancer who were participants in the Physicians' Health Study and compared infection status based on antibody levels to 673 control subjects who were not diagnosed with prostate cancer. The blood samples were collected in 1982, on average a decade before cancer diagnosis.
The results showed that Trichomonas vaginalis infection was associated with a more than two-fold increase in the risk of prostate cancer that was advanced stage at diagnosis, and a nearly three-fold increase in prostate cancer that would result in death.
"The fact that we found a strong association between serologic evidence of infection with Trichomonas vaginalis, a potentially modifiable risk factor, and risk of advanced and lethal disease represents a step forward in prostate cancer, especially given that so few risk factors for aggressive prostate cancer have been identified," said Lorelei Mucci, assistant professor in the department of epidemiology at HSPH and senior author of the study.
The authors note that further research needs to be done to confirm the findings. If confirmed, the findings from the large-scale, prospective study would identify infections as one of the few known modifiable factors for aggressive prostate cancer. Moreover, since the infection is easily treated with an inexpensive antibiotic regimen, the results from the study suggest that prevention or early treatment of Trichomonas vaginalis infection could be a target for prostate cancer prevention.
Keywords: Infectious Disease, Inflammation, Oncology, Prostate Cancer, Prostatic Neoplasms, Public Health, Sexually Transmitted Disease, Trichomonas Vaginitis, Trichomoniasis, Harvard School of Public Health.
This article was prepared by Disease Risk Factor Week editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2009, Disease Risk Factor Week via NewsRx.com.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Cancer and How to Protect yourself!
Cancer. The thought of fighting for your life is enough to keep you up at night. Especially if it runs in your family. But you’re not helpless; you can take action.
Studies show certain nutrients help prevent cancer. I’ve put together some of the top cancer blockers:
Quercetin protects against lung, skin and prostate cancers. A study in the journal Carcinogenesis found quercetin could stop cancer-causing changes in prostate cells. It flushes away carcinogens and can block tumor development and growth. The most quercetin is in onions, apples, peppers, berries, grapes, tomatoes, black tea and garlic.
Catechins can prevent tumors in almost every organ in your body, from your esophagus and stomach to your colon and liver — even your breasts. They fight tissue-attacking free radicals and protect your cells against tumor development and growth.
In fact, studies show they can reduce your cancer risk between 30% and 60%. Substitute your morning cup of coffee for a mug of catechin-rich green or black tea a couple times a week.
Folate can protect against a dozen different cancers.1 Vegetables with the highest folate content are dark, leafy greens like spinach, kale and romaine lettuce. But, your body only absorbs half of the folate you consume, so taking a supplement is a very good idea.
The supplement form of folate is folic acid. Most multivitamins contain folic acid. Check yours to make sure it has at least 400 mcg. You should be certain to take it if you've had cancer or are at risk.
Carotenoids. These five cancer fighters are alpha-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein, lycopene and zeaxanthin. These colorful ‘fab five' can protect against breast cancer2, prostate, colon, bladder, pancreas, skin, lung, colon3, and cervical cancers.4
I recommend a minimum of 6 mg a day of each carotenoid. The best way is to eat more orange, red and yellow fruits and vegetables. Tomatoes, cantaloupe, peaches, oranges, and yellow, orange or red peppers are good sources. And when you're on the go, drink vegetable juices instead of fruit juices or sodas.
You can also take a mixed carotenoid supplement. I recommend doubling the dose on the bottle if you have suffered cancer or have an increased family risk for the disease. For best results, store them in your fridge and take them with food.
If you have cancer, there are new breakthrough ways to treat it.
My colleagues at Health Sciences Institute are mavericks in the cancer field. Many of these natural solutions enhance traditional treatment, and they may just make cancer disappear. In this book, you'll find at least a dozen of the most effective alternative cancer treatments available today.
Studies show certain nutrients help prevent cancer. I’ve put together some of the top cancer blockers:
Quercetin protects against lung, skin and prostate cancers. A study in the journal Carcinogenesis found quercetin could stop cancer-causing changes in prostate cells. It flushes away carcinogens and can block tumor development and growth. The most quercetin is in onions, apples, peppers, berries, grapes, tomatoes, black tea and garlic.
Catechins can prevent tumors in almost every organ in your body, from your esophagus and stomach to your colon and liver — even your breasts. They fight tissue-attacking free radicals and protect your cells against tumor development and growth.
In fact, studies show they can reduce your cancer risk between 30% and 60%. Substitute your morning cup of coffee for a mug of catechin-rich green or black tea a couple times a week.
Folate can protect against a dozen different cancers.1 Vegetables with the highest folate content are dark, leafy greens like spinach, kale and romaine lettuce. But, your body only absorbs half of the folate you consume, so taking a supplement is a very good idea.
The supplement form of folate is folic acid. Most multivitamins contain folic acid. Check yours to make sure it has at least 400 mcg. You should be certain to take it if you've had cancer or are at risk.
Carotenoids. These five cancer fighters are alpha-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein, lycopene and zeaxanthin. These colorful ‘fab five' can protect against breast cancer2, prostate, colon, bladder, pancreas, skin, lung, colon3, and cervical cancers.4
I recommend a minimum of 6 mg a day of each carotenoid. The best way is to eat more orange, red and yellow fruits and vegetables. Tomatoes, cantaloupe, peaches, oranges, and yellow, orange or red peppers are good sources. And when you're on the go, drink vegetable juices instead of fruit juices or sodas.
You can also take a mixed carotenoid supplement. I recommend doubling the dose on the bottle if you have suffered cancer or have an increased family risk for the disease. For best results, store them in your fridge and take them with food.
If you have cancer, there are new breakthrough ways to treat it.
My colleagues at Health Sciences Institute are mavericks in the cancer field. Many of these natural solutions enhance traditional treatment, and they may just make cancer disappear. In this book, you'll find at least a dozen of the most effective alternative cancer treatments available today.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Vitamin D and Cancer
HIGH levels of vitamin D in the body may improve survival rates in cancer patients.
Two new studies say that people with more vitamin D - which is produced by the skin in sunlight - when diagnosed with bowel or skin cancer were more likely to survive.
Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to reducing the risk of multiple sclerosis.
In the first study, a team from the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston followed more than 1,000 bowel cancer patients for about nine years.
Researchers estimated the vitamin D in their blood at the time of diagnosis, and found those with higher levels were 50 per cent less likely to die from the disease.
Professor Kimmie Ng, author of the study said: "Our study shows that levels of vitamin D after colorectal cancer diagnosis may be important for survival.
"We are now planning further research in patients with bowel cancer to see if vitamin D has the same effect, and to investigate how vitamin D works."
The second study, funded by Cancer Research UK looked at patients with malignant melanoma - the most deadly skin cancer, and linked low levels of vitamin D with higher rates of relapse. High levels of the vitamin were linked to thinner tumours.
Lead author Professor Julia Newton Bishop said: "It's common for the general public to have low levels of vitamin D in many countries."
Two new studies say that people with more vitamin D - which is produced by the skin in sunlight - when diagnosed with bowel or skin cancer were more likely to survive.
Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to reducing the risk of multiple sclerosis.
In the first study, a team from the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston followed more than 1,000 bowel cancer patients for about nine years.
Researchers estimated the vitamin D in their blood at the time of diagnosis, and found those with higher levels were 50 per cent less likely to die from the disease.
Professor Kimmie Ng, author of the study said: "Our study shows that levels of vitamin D after colorectal cancer diagnosis may be important for survival.
"We are now planning further research in patients with bowel cancer to see if vitamin D has the same effect, and to investigate how vitamin D works."
The second study, funded by Cancer Research UK looked at patients with malignant melanoma - the most deadly skin cancer, and linked low levels of vitamin D with higher rates of relapse. High levels of the vitamin were linked to thinner tumours.
Lead author Professor Julia Newton Bishop said: "It's common for the general public to have low levels of vitamin D in many countries."
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Oxygen can do more for you than you think!
United Press International
09-22-09
LA JOLLA, Calif., Sep 21, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Scientists at the Burnham Institute for Medical Research in California say they've discovered reactive oxygen plays a key role in cancer metastasis.
The researchers, led by Professor Sara Courtneidge, said they determined reactive species, such as superoxide and hydrogen peroxide, help form invadopodia -- cellular protrusions implicated in cancer cell migration. They found inhibiting reactive oxygen reduces invadopodia formation, thereby limiting cancer cell invasion.
"Reactive oxygen has a complex cellular role," Courtneidge said. "Normal cells use reactive oxygen to signal, grow and move. Immune cells, such as neutrophils, produce reactive oxygen to destroy bacteria. Now we find that reactive oxygen is necessary for invadopodia formation, which allows cancer cells to become metastatic."
Courtneidge said invadopodia facilitate cancer cell migration by breaking down the extracellular matrix that normally keeps cells in place.
Using invadopodia-rich mouse fibrosarcoma cells, Courtneidge and her colleagues tested a number of antioxidants and found both a marked reduction in invadopodia formation and invasive behavior. The scientists repeated the experiments with human melanoma, head and neck and breast cancer cell lines and also saw a marked reduction in invadopodia formation.
The scientists said their findings might lead to new cancer drug interventions.
The study appears in the Sept. 15 issue of the journal Science Signaling.
09-22-09
LA JOLLA, Calif., Sep 21, 2009 (UPI via COMTEX) -- Scientists at the Burnham Institute for Medical Research in California say they've discovered reactive oxygen plays a key role in cancer metastasis.
The researchers, led by Professor Sara Courtneidge, said they determined reactive species, such as superoxide and hydrogen peroxide, help form invadopodia -- cellular protrusions implicated in cancer cell migration. They found inhibiting reactive oxygen reduces invadopodia formation, thereby limiting cancer cell invasion.
"Reactive oxygen has a complex cellular role," Courtneidge said. "Normal cells use reactive oxygen to signal, grow and move. Immune cells, such as neutrophils, produce reactive oxygen to destroy bacteria. Now we find that reactive oxygen is necessary for invadopodia formation, which allows cancer cells to become metastatic."
Courtneidge said invadopodia facilitate cancer cell migration by breaking down the extracellular matrix that normally keeps cells in place.
Using invadopodia-rich mouse fibrosarcoma cells, Courtneidge and her colleagues tested a number of antioxidants and found both a marked reduction in invadopodia formation and invasive behavior. The scientists repeated the experiments with human melanoma, head and neck and breast cancer cell lines and also saw a marked reduction in invadopodia formation.
The scientists said their findings might lead to new cancer drug interventions.
The study appears in the Sept. 15 issue of the journal Science Signaling.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Is your Shower Head a Dangerous Breeding Ground?
Study: Showerheads a Breeding Ground for Dangerous Bacteria
Chicago Tribune
09-15-09
CHICAGO - If your morning shower doesn't wake you up, this sure might: Dangerous bacteria may be spraying out of your showerhead, right into your face, according to a new study.
Healthy people probably don't need to worry. But the opportunistic microbes, which thrive in the most, dark and wet environment of a showerhead, might cause problems if you're pregnant, a substance abuser or otherwise immune compromised with cystic fibrosis, cancer, AIDS or a recent organ transplant, the researchers said in the findings published in this month's Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
The main culprit is an organism called Mycobacterium avium, a relative of the bacteria that causes tuberculosis. M. avium infections are increasingly common, perhaps because we take more showers than baths. Unlike baths, showerheads deliver the microorganisms as aerosolized particles that are small enough to be inhaled into the lungs.
The research team from the University of Colorado, which previously warned us that M. avium was lurking in the soap scum on vinyl shower curtains, sampled 45 showerheads in homes, apartments and public places around the country. They found that the showerheads don't just harbor the potentially infectious microbes; they enrich their growth.
Unfortunately, showerheads have nooks and crannies that make them hard to clean. Products with bleach can temporarily remove many microbes, but they just grow back. An all-metal showerhead, which microbes have a hard time grabbing, might be a good option if you're immune compromised, the researchers said.
Filtered showerheads could be replaced weekly. Or try bathing, which won't splash microbes into the air as much as showers.
Chicago Tribune
09-15-09
CHICAGO - If your morning shower doesn't wake you up, this sure might: Dangerous bacteria may be spraying out of your showerhead, right into your face, according to a new study.
Healthy people probably don't need to worry. But the opportunistic microbes, which thrive in the most, dark and wet environment of a showerhead, might cause problems if you're pregnant, a substance abuser or otherwise immune compromised with cystic fibrosis, cancer, AIDS or a recent organ transplant, the researchers said in the findings published in this month's Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
The main culprit is an organism called Mycobacterium avium, a relative of the bacteria that causes tuberculosis. M. avium infections are increasingly common, perhaps because we take more showers than baths. Unlike baths, showerheads deliver the microorganisms as aerosolized particles that are small enough to be inhaled into the lungs.
The research team from the University of Colorado, which previously warned us that M. avium was lurking in the soap scum on vinyl shower curtains, sampled 45 showerheads in homes, apartments and public places around the country. They found that the showerheads don't just harbor the potentially infectious microbes; they enrich their growth.
Unfortunately, showerheads have nooks and crannies that make them hard to clean. Products with bleach can temporarily remove many microbes, but they just grow back. An all-metal showerhead, which microbes have a hard time grabbing, might be a good option if you're immune compromised, the researchers said.
Filtered showerheads could be replaced weekly. Or try bathing, which won't splash microbes into the air as much as showers.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Prostate Cancer and Weight Gain
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services -- Unrestricted
09-03-09
Patrick Walsh, M.D., author of Guide To Surviving Prostate Cancer and Distinguished Service Professor of Urology--The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, is the world's foremost authority on prostate cancer. His book provides some striking news for men:
--More than 200,000 American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year.
--27,000 will die in the U.S. from it this year.
--Prostate cancer is the most common major cancer in men.
--Because prostate cancer is silent, generally without symptoms, early detection is the key.
--Men should begin being screened for prostate cancer at age 40.
--When prostate cancer is small, it is curable.
--More than 95% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer are alive ten years later.
Dr. Walsh evaluates the three major risk factors--age, race, and family history. Prostate cancer is the scourge of older men (age 60-79) with a risk rate of 1 in 7 developing the cancer. The cancer frequently takes time to grow, over the course of decades.
The highest risk of prostate cancer hits African American men. Why this is, is not completely understood, but may involve genetic susceptibility, diet, and lack of vitamin D. Their cancers are also more likely to be severe types and recur.
Risk of prostate cancer grows higher with familial links. In fact, the risk is 2.5 times higher if your father or brother had prostate cancer. Hereditary prostate cancer, (possible risk of 50%) is believed to occur when three first degree family members had it, the disease shows itself in three generations, or if two relatives developed the disease earlier (less than age 55).
The most important action to take is to get screened, beginning at age 40. The PSA test can provide a baseline for later years. Dr. Walsh adds that those between the ages of 50 and 64 who die of prostate cancer, could very well have been saved if the disease had been caught while in their forties.
A recently released study from the online journal Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention (Sep 2009) has found that weight gain plays a major role in the development of prostate cancer.
Dr. Walsh includes a prevention chapter in his new second edition. He recommends men eat a minimum of five fruits and vegetables a day, especially focusing in on the cruciferous vegetables as cited from the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, and broccoli are examples of the type of vegetables which contain sulforaphane--an important anticancer ingredient which helps to increase potent enzymes in the body. In turn, the body is assisted in creating its own antioxidants to help ward off cancer.
09-03-09
Patrick Walsh, M.D., author of Guide To Surviving Prostate Cancer and Distinguished Service Professor of Urology--The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, is the world's foremost authority on prostate cancer. His book provides some striking news for men:
--More than 200,000 American men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year.
--27,000 will die in the U.S. from it this year.
--Prostate cancer is the most common major cancer in men.
--Because prostate cancer is silent, generally without symptoms, early detection is the key.
--Men should begin being screened for prostate cancer at age 40.
--When prostate cancer is small, it is curable.
--More than 95% of men diagnosed with prostate cancer are alive ten years later.
Dr. Walsh evaluates the three major risk factors--age, race, and family history. Prostate cancer is the scourge of older men (age 60-79) with a risk rate of 1 in 7 developing the cancer. The cancer frequently takes time to grow, over the course of decades.
The highest risk of prostate cancer hits African American men. Why this is, is not completely understood, but may involve genetic susceptibility, diet, and lack of vitamin D. Their cancers are also more likely to be severe types and recur.
Risk of prostate cancer grows higher with familial links. In fact, the risk is 2.5 times higher if your father or brother had prostate cancer. Hereditary prostate cancer, (possible risk of 50%) is believed to occur when three first degree family members had it, the disease shows itself in three generations, or if two relatives developed the disease earlier (less than age 55).
The most important action to take is to get screened, beginning at age 40. The PSA test can provide a baseline for later years. Dr. Walsh adds that those between the ages of 50 and 64 who die of prostate cancer, could very well have been saved if the disease had been caught while in their forties.
A recently released study from the online journal Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention (Sep 2009) has found that weight gain plays a major role in the development of prostate cancer.
Dr. Walsh includes a prevention chapter in his new second edition. He recommends men eat a minimum of five fruits and vegetables a day, especially focusing in on the cruciferous vegetables as cited from the Journal of the National Cancer Institute. Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, and broccoli are examples of the type of vegetables which contain sulforaphane--an important anticancer ingredient which helps to increase potent enzymes in the body. In turn, the body is assisted in creating its own antioxidants to help ward off cancer.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer develops through a process involving genetic change in the epithelial cells of the colon lining. The main factors that initiate colorectal cancer are consumption of cooked red meat (due to heterocyclic amines) (Gerhardsson de V et al 1991; Reddy S et al 1987), high intake of refined carbohydrates (Franceschi S et al 2001), poor vitamin and mineral intake, alcohol consumption, smoking, bile acids, fecal mutagens (DNA-damaging agents), fecal pH, and compromised detoxification enzymes (Winawer SJ et al 1992). An example of one important detoxification enzyme is N-acetyltransferase, which catalyzes the formation of DNA-damaging products from heterocyclic amines that form in cooked meats. Differences in the activity of this enzyme classify individuals as slow or fast acetylators. The level of red meat consumption in fast but not slow acetylators is associated with risk for colorectal cancer development (Welfare MR et al 1997).
In industrialized Western societies, both polyps and colon cancer occur more frequently due in part to diets low in fruits, vegetables, vegetable protein, and fiber (Satia-Aboutaj J et al 2003). Fecal mutagens are produced by certain diets such as those containing overcooked or burnt meat or fish. Increased intake of fiber, on the other hand, shortens the intestinal transit time, which in turn reduces the exposure of the colorectal lining to mutagens within the stool (Johansson G et al 1997).
Low folate intake, especially when combined with alcohol consumption and a low-protein diet, increases colorectal cancer risk (Kato I et al 1999). Dietary folate influences DNA methylation, synthesis, and repair. Abnormalities in these DNA processes enhance cancer development, particularly in rapidly growing tissues such as the colorectal mucosa (Lengauer C et al 1997; Feinberg AP et al 1983). Higher folate intake from either dietary sources or supplements may protect against the initiation of colorectal cancer (Giovannucci E 2002, 1998).
In industrialized Western societies, both polyps and colon cancer occur more frequently due in part to diets low in fruits, vegetables, vegetable protein, and fiber (Satia-Aboutaj J et al 2003). Fecal mutagens are produced by certain diets such as those containing overcooked or burnt meat or fish. Increased intake of fiber, on the other hand, shortens the intestinal transit time, which in turn reduces the exposure of the colorectal lining to mutagens within the stool (Johansson G et al 1997).
Low folate intake, especially when combined with alcohol consumption and a low-protein diet, increases colorectal cancer risk (Kato I et al 1999). Dietary folate influences DNA methylation, synthesis, and repair. Abnormalities in these DNA processes enhance cancer development, particularly in rapidly growing tissues such as the colorectal mucosa (Lengauer C et al 1997; Feinberg AP et al 1983). Higher folate intake from either dietary sources or supplements may protect against the initiation of colorectal cancer (Giovannucci E 2002, 1998).
Monday, September 29, 2008
Canadian Cancer Cure?
Backround:
Essiac® contains a combination of herbs, including burdock root ( Arctium lappa ), sheep sorrel ( Rumex acetosella ), slippery elm inner bark ( Ulmus fulva ), and Turkish rhubarb ( Rheum palmatum ). The original formula was developed by the Canadian nurse Rene Caisse (1888-1978) in the 1920s ("Essiac" is Caisse spelled backwards). The recipe is said to be based on a traditional Ojibwa (Native American) remedy, and Caisse administered the formula by mouth and injection to numerous cancer patients during the 1920s and 1930s. The exact ingredients and amounts in the original formulation remain a secret.
During investigations by the Canadian government and public hearings in the late 1930s, it remained unclear if Essiac® was an effective cancer treatment. Amidst controversy, Caisse closed her clinic in 1942. In the 1950s, Caisse provided samples of Essiac® to Dr. Charles Brusch, founder of the Brusch Medical Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts, who administered Essiac® to patients (it is unclear if Brusch was given access to the secret formula). According to some accounts, additional herbs were added to these later formulations, including blessed thistle ( Cnicus benedictus ), red clover ( Trifolium pratense ), kelp ( Laminaria digitata ), and watercress ( Nasturtium officinale ).
A laboratory at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center tested Essiac® samples (provided by Caisse) on mice during the 1970s. This research was never formally published, and there is controversy regarding the results, with some accounts noting no benefits, and others reporting significant effects (including an account by Dr. Brusch). Questions were later raised of improper preparation of the formula. Caisse subsequently refused requests by researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering and the U.S. National Cancer Institute for access to the recipe.
In the 1970s, Caisse provided the formula to Resperin Corporation Ltd., with the understanding that Resperin would coordinate a scientific trial in humans. Although a study was initiated, it was stopped early amidst questions of improper preparation of the formula and inadequate study design. This research was never completed. Resperin Corporation Ltd., which owned the Essiac® name, formally went out of business after transferring rights to the Essiac® name and selling the secret formula to Essiac Products Ltd., which currently distributes products through Essiac® International.
Despite the lack of available scientific evidence, Essiac® and Essiac-like products (with similar ingredients) remain popular among patients, particularly in those with cancer. Essiac® is most commonly taken as a tea. A survey conducted in the year 2000 found almost 15% of Canadian women with breast cancer to be using Essiac®. It has also become popular in patients with HIV and diabetes, and in healthy individuals for its purported immune-enhancing properties, although there is a lack of reliable scientific research in these areas.
There are more than 40 Essiac-like products available in North America, Europe, and Australia. Flor-Essence® includes the original four herbs (burdock root, sheep sorrel, slippery elm bark, Turkish rhubarb) as well as herbs that were later added as "potentiators" (blessed thistle, red clover, kelp, watercress). Virginias Herbal E-Tonic™ contains the four original herbs along with echinacea and black walnut. Other commercial formulations may include additional ingredients, such as cat's claw ( Uncaria tomentosa ).
Original Essiac is from Canada and has VERY specific labeling!
Evidence:
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Uses based on scientific evidence
Cancer
There is a lack of properly conducted published human studies using Essiac® for cancer. Currently, there is not enough evidence to recommend for or against the use of this herbal mixture as a therapy for any type of cancer.
C
*Key to grades
A: Strong scientific evidence for this use;
B: Good scientific evidence for this use;
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use;
D: Fair scientific evidence against this use;
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use.
Which makes this Blogger think "It can't hurt!"
http://www.healthyprism.com/
ESSIAC CAPS
Click above to view genuine product!
Essiac® contains a combination of herbs, including burdock root ( Arctium lappa ), sheep sorrel ( Rumex acetosella ), slippery elm inner bark ( Ulmus fulva ), and Turkish rhubarb ( Rheum palmatum ). The original formula was developed by the Canadian nurse Rene Caisse (1888-1978) in the 1920s ("Essiac" is Caisse spelled backwards). The recipe is said to be based on a traditional Ojibwa (Native American) remedy, and Caisse administered the formula by mouth and injection to numerous cancer patients during the 1920s and 1930s. The exact ingredients and amounts in the original formulation remain a secret.
During investigations by the Canadian government and public hearings in the late 1930s, it remained unclear if Essiac® was an effective cancer treatment. Amidst controversy, Caisse closed her clinic in 1942. In the 1950s, Caisse provided samples of Essiac® to Dr. Charles Brusch, founder of the Brusch Medical Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts, who administered Essiac® to patients (it is unclear if Brusch was given access to the secret formula). According to some accounts, additional herbs were added to these later formulations, including blessed thistle ( Cnicus benedictus ), red clover ( Trifolium pratense ), kelp ( Laminaria digitata ), and watercress ( Nasturtium officinale ).
A laboratory at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center tested Essiac® samples (provided by Caisse) on mice during the 1970s. This research was never formally published, and there is controversy regarding the results, with some accounts noting no benefits, and others reporting significant effects (including an account by Dr. Brusch). Questions were later raised of improper preparation of the formula. Caisse subsequently refused requests by researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering and the U.S. National Cancer Institute for access to the recipe.
In the 1970s, Caisse provided the formula to Resperin Corporation Ltd., with the understanding that Resperin would coordinate a scientific trial in humans. Although a study was initiated, it was stopped early amidst questions of improper preparation of the formula and inadequate study design. This research was never completed. Resperin Corporation Ltd., which owned the Essiac® name, formally went out of business after transferring rights to the Essiac® name and selling the secret formula to Essiac Products Ltd., which currently distributes products through Essiac® International.
Despite the lack of available scientific evidence, Essiac® and Essiac-like products (with similar ingredients) remain popular among patients, particularly in those with cancer. Essiac® is most commonly taken as a tea. A survey conducted in the year 2000 found almost 15% of Canadian women with breast cancer to be using Essiac®. It has also become popular in patients with HIV and diabetes, and in healthy individuals for its purported immune-enhancing properties, although there is a lack of reliable scientific research in these areas.
There are more than 40 Essiac-like products available in North America, Europe, and Australia. Flor-Essence® includes the original four herbs (burdock root, sheep sorrel, slippery elm bark, Turkish rhubarb) as well as herbs that were later added as "potentiators" (blessed thistle, red clover, kelp, watercress). Virginias Herbal E-Tonic™ contains the four original herbs along with echinacea and black walnut. Other commercial formulations may include additional ingredients, such as cat's claw ( Uncaria tomentosa ).
Original Essiac is from Canada and has VERY specific labeling!
Evidence:
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.
Uses based on scientific evidence
Cancer
There is a lack of properly conducted published human studies using Essiac® for cancer. Currently, there is not enough evidence to recommend for or against the use of this herbal mixture as a therapy for any type of cancer.
C
*Key to grades
A: Strong scientific evidence for this use;
B: Good scientific evidence for this use;
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use;
D: Fair scientific evidence against this use;
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use.
Which makes this Blogger think "It can't hurt!"
http://www.healthyprism.com/
ESSIAC CAPS
Click above to view genuine product!
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