Effects of in vitro inhibition of TLRs 2, 3 and 4 from human colorretal cancer cells during papaya pectin treatment

• Grant number: 18/05900-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2018
• End date: February 28, 2019
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Food Science and Technology - Food Science
• Principal Investigator: Joao Paulo Fabi
• Grantee: Thales Souza Santos
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências Farmacêuticas (FCF). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 12/23970-2 - Biological changes of papaya pectins with possible benefits to human health, AP.JP

Abstract

Cancer is currently one of the leading causes of death in the world, and among many different types of tumors, colorectal cancer (CCR) stands out. Studies show a strong correlation between sedentary lifestyle and high consumption of animal products associated to low intake of vegetables, fruits and legumes, resulting in the low consumption of soluble fibers, components widely present in fleshy fruits, such as papaya. Among the soluble fibers of the fruits, the pectins, polysaccharides that may present antitumor activity, is noticeable. Previous indications suggest the possibility of the interaction of pectins with TLR receptors of numbers 2, 3 and 4 of tumor cells, interfering in the cell signaling pathway of these receptors and, consequently, interfering in the development and progression of colorectal cancer. Thus, this research aims to elucidate under which of these receptors the pectin-rich water soluble fraction of the mature papaya pulp produces anti-proliferative effects in colorectal cancer cells, in vitro. In order to do so, chemical inhibitions of TLR2, 3 and 4 receptors in HCT-116 and HT-29 colorectal cancer cell lines will be performed and the cell viability results after treatment with pectins extracted from mature papayas will be compared to the control cells (without treatment or only with treatment with the inhibitors). (AU)