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A study found that a class of molecules formed when the body metabolizes omega-3 fatty acids could inhibit the spread and growth of cancer.
In a recent study conducted at the University of Illinois, researchers found that mice, the molecules called endocannabinoids, are made naturally by the body and have properties similar to the cannabinoids present in the marijuana – but without the psychotropic effects.
In mice with osteosarcoma tumors – a notoriously painful and difficult-to-treat bone cancer – Endocannabinoids slowed the growth of tumors and blood vessels, prevented cancer cells from migrating and caused the death of cancer cells.
"We have an integrated endocannabinoid system that is anti-inflammatory and reduces pain. Now we see that it is also anti-cancer, which prevents cells from proliferating or migrating, "said researcher Aditi Das." These molecules could solve multiple problems: cancer, inflammation and pain, " she adds
.In 2017, the Illinois team identified a new group of omega-3 fatty acid metabolites called endocannabinoid epoxides, or EDP-EA. had anti-inflammatory properties and targeted the same receptor in the body as cannabis.
As cannabis has demonstrated anticancer properties, researchers have studied in the new study that EAs also affect cancer cells.
They also found that in mice with osteosarcoma tumors metastasized to the lungs, there was an 80% increase in natural EDP-EAs in cancerous lung tissue on the lungs. orms of healthy mice.
"The dramatic increase indicated that these molecules were doing something to cancer – but we did not know if it was harmful or good," she added.
"We asked if they were trying to stop the cancer or to make it easier?" So we looked at individual properties and found that they were acting against cancer in several ways, "she said. she added.
Researchers found that at higher concentrations, EDP-EAs destroyed cancer cells, but not as effectively as others. However, the compounds also fought the Osteosarcoma by other means: they slowed tumor growth by preventing the formation of new blood vessels to provide nutrients to the tumor, they prevented interactions between cells, and most importantly, they seemed to prevent cancer cells to migrate.
"The main cause of cancer death is driven by the spread of tumor cells, which requires the migration of cells," said another researcher Timothy Fan, who has the potential hindering cell migration could also be helpful in slowing down or inhibiting metastasis, "she added.
The researchers have isolated the most potent molecules and are working to develop derivatives that bind better to the cannabinoid receptor, which is abundant on the surface on cancer cells.
"The dietary consumption of omega-3 fatty acids can lead to the formation of these substances in the body and may have effects.However, if you have cancer, you want something concentrated and uncomfortable. fast action, "says Das.
Endocannabinoid epoxide derivatives come into play – since one can make a concentrated dose of the exact most effective compound against cancer. "You can also mix that with other drugs such as chemotherapy," Das adds.
Next, the researchers plan to perform preclinical studies in dogs, since dogs develop osteosarcoma spontaneously, similarly to humans. They also plan to study the effects of EDP-EA derived omega-3 fatty acids in other types of cancer.
"The most interesting cancers to study are solid tumors or carcinomas that tend to spread and cause pain. in the skeleton. Some of the most common tumors that behave this way are carcinomas of the breast, prostate and lung, and we can certainly explore these tumors in the future, "says Fan
. (ANI)
This is published unedited from the ANI stream.
Posted on July 14, 2018 at 4:59 pm
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