Nutr Rev. 2012 Aug;70(8):436-43.
Effect of prebiotics on biomarkers of colorectal cancer in humans: a systematic review.
Clark MJ, Robien K, Slavin JL.
Source
Department of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul,
Minnesota 55108, USA.
Abstract
Prebiotics may prevent colorectal cancer (CRC) development in humans by
modifying the composition or activity of the colorectal microflora.
Epidemiologic and animal studies have shown a reduction in CRC or CRC biomarkers
after the administration of prebiotics. Studies using indirect chemical
biomarkers of CRC in humans, however, gave mixed results. Recently, human
studies measuring direct physical indices of CRC risk after prebiotic
consumption have been published. The purpose of this review is to summarize
those studies to provide recommendations for the use of prebiotics in CRC risk
reduction. A PubMed search was conducted, revealing nine studies. One tested
lactulose, two evaluated a blend of oligofructose and inulin, and six measured
resistant starch. Lactulose reduced adenoma recurrence, while resistant starch
had no effect on adenoma or CRC development. Crypt mitotic location, gene
expression, and DNA methylation were somewhat improved after resistant starch
consumption. No changes in cell proliferation and apoptosis, crypt morphology,
or aberrant crypt foci were found. More human studies measuring physical changes
to the gut are needed.
© 2012 International Life Sciences Institute.
PMID: 22835137 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]