INOR 382 |
| Vanadium and selenium have been shown to prevent chemically-induced cancers in rats. In humans, high dietary intake of selenium has been correlated with lower incidences of many cancers. At this time, the mechanism of cancer prevention by these inorganic nutrients is not known. We are exploring a “carcinogen interception” mechanism of cancer prevention. Under aqueous conditions, these elements take on the form of vanadates and selenates. These anionic oxo species may be potent nucleophiles and consume electrophilic alkylating carcinogens, thereby preventing the resulting DNA damage, mutations, and cancer. We are studying the chemical reactions of alkylating toxins with metal oxos. On a biochemical level, we are attempting to alkylate DNA in both the presence and absence of inorganic compounds. We have found that vanadates and selenates react with, and detoxify, carcinogens. Our results also show that both vanadates and selenates are capable of inhibiting DNA alkylating damage. These data suggest that metal oxo compounds may be capable of consuming carcinogens, thereby providing a new strategy for preventing cancer. |
|
5th International Symposium on Chemistry and Biological Chemistry of Vanadium: Posters in Chemistry and Biochemistry
7:00 PM-10:00 PM, Sunday, 10 September 2006 Moscone Center -- Hall D, Poster
Sci-Mix
Division of Inorganic Chemistry |