Effect of Metronidazole on Colorectal Tumors in Rats
Author Information
Author(s): J.B. Rainey, M. Maeda, C. Williams, R.C.N. Williamson
Primary Institution: University Department of Surgery, Bristol Royal Infirmary
Hypothesis
Does oral metronidazole reduce the cocarcinogenic effect of sodium deoxycholate in rats?
Conclusion
Metronidazole reduces the tumor-promoting effect of sodium deoxycholate in rats, suggesting the importance of faecal anaerobes in bile acid cocarcinogenesis.
Supporting Evidence
- Sodium deoxycholate increased mean colonic crypt depth by 9%.
- Colorectal tumor yields increased from 2.4 in controls to 6.4 with sodium deoxycholate.
- Metronidazole reduced tumor yields by 33% compared to sodium deoxycholate alone.
Takeaway
This study found that a medicine called metronidazole can help lower the risk of cancer caused by a substance found in bile when tested in rats.
Methodology
Male Sprague-Dawley rats were treated with azoxymethane and then given intrarectal sodium deoxycholate with or without metronidazole, followed by tumor assessment after 28 weeks.
Limitations
The study was conducted on rats, which may not fully represent human responses.
Participant Demographics
Male Sprague-Dawley rats, weighing 70-100g.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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