Trans-fatty acids and cancer: a mini-review.
The association between trans-fatty acids (TFA) and cancer risk is poorly understood and remains controversial. It is recognised that unique biological effects are associated with specific isoforms within families of fatty acids such as those belonging to the n-3 fatty acids. Furthermore, the interactions between diet and genetic polymorphisms are increasingly recognised for their potential risk-modifying effects on human health and disease. Therefore, the aim of the present review is to evaluate whether specific TFA isomers and genetic polymorphisms differentially modify cancer risk in prostate, colon and breast cancers in animal and human models. Potential mechanisms of action by which TFA may affect cancer development are also reviewed. Overall, across a number of experimental models and human studies, there is insufficient and inconsistent evidence linking specific TFA isomers to cancers of the prostate, colon and breast. A number of methodological limitations and experimental considerations were identified which may explain the inconsistencies observed across these studies. Therefore, further research is warranted to accurately assess the relationship between TFA and cancer risk.
Smith
Brennan K
BK
Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, College of Biological Science, University of Guelph, Ontario, Canada.
Robinson
Lindsay E
LE
Nam
Robert
R
Ma
David W L
DW
D000818:Animals; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000139:chemically induced; D002471:Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / Q000187:drug effects; D003110:Colonic Neoplasms / Q000139:chemically induced; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000139:chemically induced*; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000139:chemically induced; D051381:Rats; D044242:Trans Fatty Acids / Q000009:adverse effects*
D044242:Trans Fatty Acids