Changes in Serum Fatty Acids and Inflammatory Markers in Postmenopausal Women With Breast Cancer Following Chemotherapy Treatment

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Chemotherapy induces an inflammatory state. Fatty acids (FAs) are potent signaling molecules that can alter inflammation. The objective of this research was to examine if serum fatty acids and inflammatory markers in postmenopausal breast cancer patients changed during and after chemotherapy. Methods Serum samples from 60 women undergoing chemotherapy for breast cancer were collected at baseline (n = 50), the fourth cycle of chemotherapy (chemo-4; n = 40), and 6 months after chemotherapy (6M post-chemo; n = 34). Serum F As were extracted, methylated, then analyzed using gas chromatography; serum cytokines were analyzed using multiplex enzyme-linked immunoassay. After natural log-transformation data were analyzed by one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by post hoc tests using Tukey's Honest Significant Difference test. Results From baseline to chemo-4, C18:0, C20:0, and C22:5n6 significantly decreased (P < 0.05 for all) while C18:1n9, total n-9 FAs, total monounsaturated FAs (MUFAs), and tumor necrosis factor alpha-receptor II (TNF-RII) increased (P < 0.05 for all). From chemo-4 to 6M post-chemo, FAs did not change significantly; however, interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-8 increased (P < 0.05). From baseline to 6M post-chemo, C20:0 significantly decreased (P < 0.05) while C18:1n9, C20:1n9, total n-9 FAs, total MUFAs significantly increased (P < 0.05 for all); additionally, the n-3/n-6 ratio and IL-6 significantly increased (P < 0.05 for all). Conclusions There were significant changes in serum FAs and serum cytokines in women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy. Cytokine changes were consistent with a more inflammatory profile during and after chemotherapy. Future research will investigate associations between serum FAs and serum inflammatory markers in breast cancer survivors undergoing chemotherapy. Funding Sources The Ohio State University Stefanie Spielman Breast Cancer Center Kroger Fund.