Published:05 February 2019
ABSTRACT
Cancer is the second leading cause of
mortality worldwide. The role of unresolved inflammation in cancer
progression and metastasis is well established. Platelet-activating
factor (PAF) is a key proinflammatory mediator in the initiation and
progression of cancer. Evidence suggests that PAF is integral to
suppression of the immune system and promotion of metastasis and tumor
growth by altering local angiogenic and cytokine networks. Interactions
between PAF and its receptor may have a role in various digestive, skin,
and hormone-dependent cancers. Diet plays a critical role in the
prevention of cancer and its treatment. Research indicates that the
Mediterranean diet may reduce the incidence of several cancers in which
dietary PAF inhibitors have a role. Dietary PAF inhibitors such as polar
lipids have demonstrated inhibitory effects against the physiological
actions of PAF in cancer and other chronic inflammatory conditions in
vitro and in vivo. In addition, experimental models of radiotherapy and
chemotherapy demonstrate that inhibition of PAF as adjuvant therapy may
lead to more favorable outcomes. Although promising, there is limited
evidence on the potential benefits of dietary PAF inhibitors on cancer
prevention or treatment. Therefore, further extensive research is
required to assess the effects of various dietary factors and PAF
inhibitors and to elucidate the mechanisms in prevention of cancer
progression and metastasis at a molecular level.
