Cholesterol gallstones and cancer of gallbladder (CAGB): molecular links.
There is a known association between cholesterol gallstones and cancer of gall bladder (CAGB). However, the exact relation is not clear. It is proposed they are linked at molecular level by the activity of the orphan nuclear receptors (ONRs) and ABC transporter pumps involved in cholesterol and xenobiotic efflux from the liver into bile. There is evidence that these two pathways are closely interlinked and influence each other. Genetic and environmental factors that upregulate these systems can lead to the simultaneous pumping of cholesterol (which precipitate as gallstones) and a food carcinogen into the bile in gall bladder; the latter causes malignant transformation. Aflatoxin B, a potent hepatocarcinogen, could be the culprit in endemic regions such as South America and North India.
Venniyoor
Ajit
A
Department of Medicine and Medical Oncology, INHS Asvini, Near RC Church, Colaba, Mumbai Bombay, Maharastra 400 005, India. avenniyoor@gmail.com
D001692:Biological Transport; D002784:Cholesterol / Q000378:metabolism*; D004847:Epithelial Cells / Q000502:physiology; D004967:Estrogens / Q000378:metabolism; D005706:Gallbladder Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics* / Q000503:physiopathology; D042882:Gallstones / Q000235:genetics* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D018160:Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear / Q000502:physiology; D015262:Xenobiotics / Q000493:pharmacokinetics
D004967:Estrogens; D018160:Receptors, Cytoplasmic and Nuclear; D015262:Xenobiotics; D002784:Cholesterol