Although this data was gathered from preclinical studies, senior author Sujit Basu, MD, PhD, of the Translational Therapeutics Program at the OSUCCC – James, says preliminary results in animal models are promising and worthy of further investigation through phase I human studies. Basu and colleagues in April reported their initial findings in the journal Cancer Prevention Research.
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 5.4 million basal and squamous cell skin cancers are diagnosed annually in the United States. The disease typically recurs throughout a person’s lifetime, and advanced disease can lead to physical disfiguration. These cancers are linked to the sun’s damaging rays, and despite increased public awareness of sun safety precautions, rates of the disease have been increasing for many years.
Previous peer-reviewed, published studies have shown that dopamine receptors play a role in the development of cancerous tumors; however, their role in precancerous lesions is unknown.
In this study, OSUCCC – James researchers report data showing that the neurotransmitter/neurohormone dopamine, by activating its D2 receptors, can stop the development and progression of certain UVB-induced precancerous squamous skin cancers. They also describe the molecular sequence of events that leads to cancer suppression.
“Cancer control experts have been stressing the importance of reducing exposure to the sun and practicing sun-safe habits for years, but scientific data shows us that cumulative damage of UV rays ultimately leads to skin cancer for many people,” says Basu, a professor in the Department of Pathology at Ohio State. “Finding better ways to prevent these cancers from developing is critical to reduce the global burden of this disease.
“Our study suggests that a commonly used drug that activates specific dopamine receptors could help reduce squamous cell skin cancer recurrence and possibly even prevent the disease,” he adds. “This is especially exciting because this is a drug that is readily used in clinical settings and is relatively inexpensive. We are excited to continue momentum in this area of research.”
The OSUCCC – James is working on plans for further testing in a phase I clinical trial.