Researchers from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) discovered that derivatives of Mexican arnica, a plant with anti-inflammatory properties, have a high toxic effect on colon cancer cells.

Daniela Araiza, of the Department of Biomacromolecules, and Guillermo Delgado, of the Department of Natural Products of the Institute of Chemistry (IQ), work with molecules that are derived from Heterotheca inuloides to treat the fourth most frequent cancer in Mexico and the world, causing around 700 thousand deaths per year.

“Taking into account that this disease can be promoted by chronic inflammation of the intestine, we look for molecules that prevent inflammation. We studied its effect at the transduction and metabolic levels on the cells of rectal adenocarcinoma,” explained Araiza.

In addition, the researchers are seeking that these molecules specifically target tumor cells, because the current treatments kill both healthy and cancerous cells.

Under the World Day against Colon Cancer, which is commemorated on March 31, Araiza explained that this condition is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells in any part of the colon or rectum. The buildup may start as a benign tumor known as an adenomatous polyp, and eventually become cancerous.

According to the National Institutes of Cancer and Public Health, 95 percent of these cancers start in the glands that produce mucus that protects the inside of the colon and rectum. It is what is known as adenocarcinoma.

“It is not known with certainty what causes it, but it is closely related to the lifestyle, with genetic mutations or alterations in the metabolism. Genetic and metabolic errors promote the proliferation of these poorly differentiated cells and cancer,” added Araiza.

It occurs equally in men and women, mainly on people over 50 years old; risk factors are little physical activity, a diet low in fiber and high in fat, meats and processed carbohydrates; as well as in people who are overweight or obese.

Other risk factors are suffering from diabetes, consuming tobacco and alcohol, as they generate inflammation of the tissues.

Some of the symptoms of this disease are: changes in defecation for several days -diarrhea, constipation and thinner stools-, rectal bleeding, dark stools, abdominal cramps or pain, weakness and tiredness, persistent feeling of need to defecate, unexplained loss of weight.

It should also be taken into account if patients have inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn’s or nonspecific chronic ulcerative colitis (SITC), if they have a family member with colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps, among others. Araiza indicated that people over 50 years of age with symptoms or antecedents should have periodic tests to detect this condition.

“If patients are diagnosed at an early stage, the recovery rate is very high. Timely attention is important because if the tumor grows it can affect other tissues, blood vessels and lymphatics; is what is known as metastasis,” concluded the researcher.

 

Source: DGCS UNAM