Study: Research Helps Explain Role of NSAIDs in Slowing Colon Cancer

New research may help explain how commonly used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, may slow the growth of colon cancer.

Several types of NSAIDs, including the older over-the-counter painkillers ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin, are thought to affect colon cancer by blocking enzymes called COX-1. New NSAIDS are believed to affect colon cancer by blocking COX-2 enzymes.

Molecules called prostaglandins, produced by both COX enzymes, are often elevated in colon cancer.

Dr. Andrzej S. Tarnawski of the University of California-Irvine, in a report in Nature Medicine, reports on research that may explain more about how one type of prostaglandin is involved in colon cancer.

He reports that a molecule called prostaglandin E2 activates epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), triggering rapid growth of both cells lining the gastrointestinal tract and colon cancer cells.

Since NSAIDs counter EGFR, the research may explain why they seem to slow the development of colon cancer.

Other Sources: Nature Medicine