Crosstalk between Statins and Cancer Prevention and Therapy: An Update

The importance of statins in cancer has been discussed in many studies. They are known for their anticancer properties against solid tumors of the liver or lung, as well as diffuse cancers, such as multiple myeloma or leukemia. Currently, the most commonly used statins are simvastatin, rosuvastatin and atorvastatin. The anti-tumor activity of statins is largely related to their ability to induce apoptosis by targeting cancer cells with high selectivity. Statins are also involved in the regulation of the histone acetylation level, the disturbance of which can lead to abnormal activity of genes involved in the regulation of proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. As a result, tumor growth and its invasion may be promoted, which is associated with a poor prognosis. High levels of histone deacetylases are observed in many cancers; therefore, one of the therapeutic strategies is to use their inhibitors. Combining statins with histone deacetylase inhibitors can induce a synergistic anticancer effect.

Primary multifocal cystic signet ring neuroendocrine tumor of liver: a case report

Primary signet ring neuroendocrine tumors of the liver are extremely rare tumors. Morphologically, they mimic signet ring cell adenocarcinomas; however, the absence of mucin by special stains and the expression of neuroendocrine markers help to diagnose these tumors. We herein report a case of a 47-year-old female who presented with multiple solid and cystic lesions in both liver lobes, which were initially suggested to be biliary cystadenocarcinoma on imaging. Liver biopsy of the lesion revealed the presence of a signet ring neoplasm with diffuse expression of synaptophysin and pan-cytokeratin. The case was subsequently diagnosed as a primary hepatic signet ring neuroendocrine tumor. The patient was offered 3 cycles of chemotherapy and is well preserved after 14 months of diagnosis. Although this is an extremely rare entity, its possibility should be considered in the differential diagnosis of neoplasms characterized by signet ring cell morphology.

Proton pump inhibitors usage and the risk of cancer

Introduction and purpose of the work:Proton pump inhibitors are used to reduce gastric acidity by irreversibly inhibiting the hydrogen-potassium ATPase present in the parietal cells of the stomach. These drugs are used more and more often, often not in accordance with the recommendations. There are reports suggesting a relationship between chronic PPI use and the occurrence of cancer. The aim of the study is to present information on the relationship between the use of proton pump inhibitors and the risk of developing cancer.State of knowledge:Recent field studies have shown that there is a significant relationship between PPI use and carcinogenesis. One possible mechanism is related to the sustained release of gastrin in large amounts, which in turn stimulates the production of substances with trophic effects on the gastrointestinal mucosa, and cell proliferation over time may lead to cancer formation. The relationship between high gastrin concentration and the formation of gastric neuroendocrine neoplasms, tumors of the liver, pancreas and esophagus has been proven.Summary:Proton pump inhibitors are considered safe drugs. Taking into account the described reports on the increased risk of developing certain cancers, when prescribing PPIs, the risk associated with their use should also be taken into account. However, it seems that the benefits of using these drugs outweigh the risks in most cases.