Ferulic acid as anticarcinogenic agent against 1,2-dimethylhydrazine induced colon cancer in rats

Abstract

Objectives

The aim of the study was to assess the beneficial effect of ferulic acid (FA) compared to 5-flurouracil (5FU) on colon cancer caused by 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH).

Method

Rats were divided into four groups (Control, FA, 5FU and DMH groups). The DMH group was injected subcutaneously once a week for 15 weeks. FA group was orally administered three times per week for 4 weeks with dose of 50 mg/kg. The 5FU group was intraperitoneally injected once per week with dose of 50 mg/kg for 4 weeks.

Results

Histopathological, immunohistochemical and molecular studies have been undertaken. The mucosa of the induced colon cancer was significant infiltrated by mononuclear cells and hemorrhage. Also, there was improper shape of the crypts with partial loss of polarity. The muscularis mucosa was infiltrated by pleomorphic cells. The mucosa and submucosa have indeed been invaded by a gland-like set of cells, congested blood vessels with extravagance of mononuclear cells, which are concentrated in the mucosa that fills the corium of the connective tissue. Moreover, colon sections of the DMH treated rats showed intensive immunoreactivity to Ki67, CK20 and weak immunoreactivity to P53 and Caspase-3. Moreover, FA could significantly (p < 0.01) upregulate P53 by approximately 5 fold.

Conclusions

Findings of the present study indicated a significant therapeutic effect of ferulic acid against colon cancer by inhibiting proliferation and promoting apoptosis.