Areca nut chewing is a broad cultural tradition, especially in Southeast Asia. However, increasing scientific evidence has linked betel nut use to an increased risk of head and neck cancer. The research team led by Professor Ann-Joy Cheng of Chang Gung University in Taiwan has made significant progress in discovering the molecular mechanisms behind the association. Their study, published in cancer, identified specific microRNAs that play a crucial role in betel nut-induced cancer.
microRNA (miRNA) is a small non-coding RNA molecule that regulates gene expression and affects cell function. Professor Cheng’s team investigated how Areca nut exposure alters miRNA activity, which leads to cancer development. By analyzing multiple data sets, they found 39 oncogenic (cancer-promoting) miRNAs and 45 tumor-suppressing miRNAs significantly associated with betel nut-induced malignant tumors. “Our study provides a comprehensive analysis of how betel nut alters miRNA expression, disrupting the key biological pathways that drive cancer progression,” said Dr. Huang, co-author of the study.
Among tumor-suppressed miRNAs, the appearance of miR-499a-5p is particularly critical. Laboratory experiments show that miR-499a-5p helps slow cancer cell migration, invasion and resistance to chemotherapy, which are three hallmarks of aggressive cancer behavior. “miR-499a-5p plays a key role in inhibiting tumor progression caused by betel nut exposure,” Professor Cheng explained. “The potential as a therapeutic target opens up exciting avenues for future cancer treatment.”
Research findings show that miRNA can serve as a biomarker for the early detection of cancers associated with betel nut. Identifying high-risk people through miRNA analysis can improve early diagnosis and prognosis, which may enhance patient outcomes. Professor Cheng pointed out: “Using miRNA as a diagnostic marker can intervene early and improve treatment strategies for patients with cancer induced by betel nut.” In addition, restoring tumor suppressor miRNAs such as miR-499a-5p can provide novel treatments that may reverse some of the damage caused by betel nut exposure.
The impact of this study goes beyond diagnosis and treatment. Understanding how betel nut changes miRNA activity provides valuable insights into public health programs to reduce cancer cases in areas where betel nut chews. Because betel nut consumption is deeply rooted in cultural traditions, it is crucial to raise awareness of its carcinogenic effects. Professor Cheng stressed: “Public health campaigns should include molecular evidence, such as our findings, to educate the community about the risks of betel nut chewing and encourage preventive measures.”
This study marks a significant advance in understanding the molecular basis of betel nut-induced cancer. By elucidating the miRNA network involved, the study not only highlights potential diagnostic and therapeutic goals, but also emphasizes the importance of prevention strategies. As Professor Cheng’s team continues to explore the impact they find, they hope their research will help improve cancer detection, treatment and public awareness and ultimately help fight the growing burden of head and neck cancer worldwide.
Journal Reference
Huang H.-H., Chang JT, You G.-R., Fu Y.-F., Shen Ey-l. , Huang Y.-F., Shen C.-R., Cheng A.-J. “MirRNA Analysis of Carcinogenesis in Betel nut-induced Head and Neck Cancer.” Cancer, 2024. doi: https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers16213710
About the Author
Dr. Ann-Joy Cheng She is a professor in the Department of Biomedical Technology and Laboratory Sciences at Chang Gung University in Taiwan. She specializes in the molecular pathology of cancer. She received her PhD from the University of Texas Health Science Center and MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. Dr. Cheng’s research focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms of cancer, especially head and neck cancer. Her work has made a significant contribution to our cancer-causing pathways, therapeutic resistance, and the invasion and metastasis of cancer. She has written more than a hundred peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, further promoting knowledge in cancer biology and translational research. In addition to research, Dr. Cheng is committed to coaching graduate students and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration. She serves on the editorial board of BMC Cancer and actively participates in international conferences. Driven by passion for promoting scientific knowledge, Dr. Zheng is committed to bridging the gap between research and public understanding. She actively contributes to scientific communication and advocacy programs, making it easier for a wider audience to access complex scientific concepts.
