Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of tumor-related morbidity and mortality worldwide. Recent research strongly suggests that the redox-sensitive transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2) is a promising molecular target for chemoprevention of inflammation-driven colorectal carcinogenesis. The ground bark of Cinnamomum aromaticum (cassia) and Cinnamomum verum (Ceylon cinnamon), commonly referred to as 'cinnamon', is one of the three most consumed spices in the world, yet health effects of cinnamon consumption have remained mostly unexplored at the molecular level. Recently, we have identified the cinnamon-derived food factor cinnamaldehyde as the key principle in cinnamon powder responsible for potent induction of the Nrf2-regulated antioxidant response in human colon cells, conferring cytoprotection against subsequent oxidative and genotoxic insult. We propose exploratory research that tests the overall hypothesis that cinnamaldehyde represents a potent chemopreventive dietary factor targeting colorectal carcinogenesis through modulation of Nrf2-orchestrated cytoprotective mechanisms. To test this hypothesis, the following specific aims will be pursued:
Aim #1. To define the specific molecular targets involved in Nrf2-activation by cinnamaldehyde in colorectal epithelial cells.
Aim #2. To test feasibility of cinnamaldehyde-based intervention targeting colorectal carcinogenesis in an accepted murine model and to determine mechanistic involvement of Nrf2 in cinnamaldehyde chemopreventive activity. Successful completion of this project will generate critical proof-of-principle data guiding the rational design of future preclinical and clinical studies that aim at developing cinnamaldehyde for chemopreventive intervention targeting human colorectal carcinogenesis.

Public Health Relevance

Colorectal cancer incidence and mortality represent a health burden of global dimensions. Recently, our studies have identified cinnamaldehyde from cinnamon powder as the key principle responsible for potent induction of the Nrf2-regulated antioxidant response in human colon cells, conferring protection against carcinogenic insult. Cinnamon is among the top three most consumed spices in the world. In this exploratory molecular chemoprevention project, we will, for the first time, (I) determine the molecular mechanism underlying Nrf2- directed activity of cinnamaldehyde and (II) assess efficacy of cinnamaldehyde as an important food factor targeting colorectal cancer.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Exploratory/Developmental Grants (R21)
Project #
1R21CA166926-01A1
Application #
8442671
Study Section
Chemo/Dietary Prevention Study Section (CDP)
Program Officer
Riscuta, Gabriela
Project Start
2013-01-01
Project End
2014-12-31
Budget Start
2013-01-01
Budget End
2013-12-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2013
Total Cost
$197,708
Indirect Cost
$67,208
Name
University of Arizona
Department
Pharmacology
Type
Schools of Pharmacy
DUNS #
806345617
City
Tucson
State
AZ
Country
United States
Zip Code
85721
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