Nutrigenomics in cancer: Revisiting the effects of natural compounds

Abstract

Nutrigenomics effects have an important role in the manipulation of dietary components for human benefit, particularly in cancer prevention or treatment. The impact of dietary components, including phytochemicals, is largely studied by nutrigenomics, looking at the gene expression and molecular mechanisms interacting with bioactive compounds and nutrients, based on new 'omics' technologies. The high number of preclinical studies proves the relevant role of nutrigenomics in cancer management. By deciphering the network of nutrient-gene connections associated with cancer, relevant data will be transposed as therapeutic interventions for this devastating pathology and for fulfilling the concept of personalized nutrition. All these are presented under the nutrigenomics canopy for a better comprehension of the relation between ingested phytochemicals and chemoprevention or chemotherapy. The profits from the nutrigenomics progress, with a particular focus on the coding and noncoding genes related to the exposure of natural compounds need to be validated. A precise attention receives the evaluation of the role of natural compounds in tandem with conventional therapy using genomic approaches, with emphasis on the capacity to inhibit drug resistance mechanisms. All these relevant nutrigenomics aspects are summarized in the present review paper. It is concluded that further nutrigenomics studies are required to improve our understanding related to the complex mechanisms of action of the natural compounds and for their appropriate application as gears in cancer therapy.

The Synergistic Antitumor Effect of 5-Fluorouracil Combined with Allicin against Lung and Colorectal Carcinoma Cells

“…In this regard, our study is based on the synergistic effect of the in-house-synthesized allicin, as an adjuvant treatment in combination with 5-FU, which is a cytotoxic compound widely used in cancer treatment. Natural compounds interact with different molecular mechanisms and depending on the disease or therapeutic molecules, some bioactive compounds can reduce DNA damage and oxidative stress, can inhibit proliferation, and can reduce genetic and proteomic alterations, and can thus be used as antitumor agents [19,[32][33][34][35].…”

<b><i>Lifestyle Genomics</i></b>: Addressing the Multifactorial Nature of Personalized Health

“…The field of nutriepigenomics investigates the interplay between food compounds and the epigenome [61,[64][65][66]. Evidence of the role of dietary components on epigenetic mechanisms is well-established and the field has grown rapidly thanks to the accessibility and affordability of 'OMIC technologies.…”

“…Some of these compounds have been attributed anti-inflammatory and anti-tumoral effects, in addition to a variety of other effects that are still under investigation. Consequently, there is considerable interest to use phytochemicals to prevent and/or treat diseases [65]. The physiological benefits of physical activity and adaptation to exercise are also associated with changes in the epigenome.…”

Nexus Between Immune Responses and Oxidative Stress: The Role of Dietary Hydrolyzed Lignin in ex vivo Bovine Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cell Response

“…Numerous phytochemicals have attracted scientific attention for their anti-inflammatory activity and modulating biological responses of the animals, as well as modulating rumen microbiome and improving meat/milk quality (4,5). Interestingly, nutrigenomics study, both in human and in laboratory animals, demonstrated that nutraceutical compounds can affect gene expression, signaling processes, and other important processes, including cell apoptosis, immune modulation, and metabolism (6)(7)(8)(9). A study on ovine neutrophils activated with phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) and treated with phytochemical extracts showed a modulation of their functions with an enhancement of anti-inflammatory effects by a reduction of cell adhesion and superoxide dismutase (SOD) production (10).…”