Summary.
Background:
In this study we examined the effects of a fish oil-based lipid emulsion (FO) rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which is used in humans as a component of parenteral nutrition, on the growth of the colon cancer cell line Caco-2.
Aim of the study:
The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the FO influences growth and chemosensitivity of the colon cancer cell line Caco-2. FO was tested alone and in combination with the anticancer drug 5-fluorouracil (5-FU).
Methods:
Cell numbers were determined with crystal violet staining, cell cycle distribution was assessed using a flow cytometer and apoptosis was visualized by staining nuclei with diamino-phenylindole hydrochloride.
Results:
FO inhibited growth of Caco-2 cells in a time and dose dependent manner. FO treatment evoked apoptosis as confirmed by cell morphology. Cell cycle analysis identified an accumulation of cells in the G2/M phase after incubation with FO. The combined treatment of the cells with FO and 5-FU resulted in a significant enhancement of the growth inhibition seen after exposure to either substance alone. Treatment of the cells with 5-FU specifically blocked the cell cycle in the S phase. The combined treatment of 5-FU with FO showed a further increase in the accumulation of cells in the S phase.
Conclusions:
In conclusion, FO has a potent antiproliferative effect on Caco-2 cells, at least in part, due to a decrease in the progression of the cell cycle and the induction of apoptosis. The combination of FO with 5-FU results in an additive growth inhibitory effect.
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Jordan, A., Stein, J. Effect of an omega-3 fatty acid containing lipid emulsion alone and in combination with 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) on growth of the colon cancer cell line Caco-2. Eur J Nutr 42, 324–331 (2003). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-003-0427-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-003-0427-1