REVIEW: Inducers of the Cytochrome P-450 Superfamily as Promoters of Carcinogenesis

V. A. Koblyakov

Institute of Carcinogenesis, Blokhin Oncology Research Center, Russian Academy of Medical Sciences, Kashirskoe shosse 24, Moscow, 115478 Russia; fax: (095) 324-1205

Received October 16, 1997; Revision received December 16, 1997

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This review summarizes data on the mechanisms of tumor-promoting activity of non-genotoxic compounds that are inducers of cytochrome P-450 isoforms. Their promoting activity is analyzed in term of synthesis of new cytochrome P-450 isoforms. Active oxygen species formed by cytochrome P-450 isoforms can simultaneously act as stimulators of proliferation and inhibitors of intercellular communications. Promoter effects can be associated with changes in the ratio of cellular signaling non-protein molecules induced by newly synthesized cytochrome P-450 isoforms. Data on induction of cytochrome P-450 isoforms of family 1 indicate that inducer interaction with its receptor causes cellular events resulting in the stimulation of cell proliferation.

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KEY WORDS: carcinogenesis, active oxygen species, cytochrome P-450

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