Science University Research Symposium (SURS)
Publication Date
Fall 2024
College
Sciences and Mathematics, College of
Department
Biology, Department of
SURS Faculty Advisor
Andrea Florian
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Abstract
One in eight women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is the most common chemotherapy drug used to treat breast cancer. As an antimetabolite, 5-FU interferes with cancer cells' ability to replicate DNA, ultimately targeting and killing these cells prior to division. However, 5-FU alone has limitations due to its high toxicity and propensity to induce multidrug resistance. To enhance its efficacy, 5-FU was combined with curcumin, a compound derived from turmeric that has shown potential in reducing cancer cell proliferation. A single-dose response curve, a Singer assay, and western blot analysis were employed to assess the effects of curcumin and 5-FU on breast cancer cells. These combined methods revealed the most effective drug concentration gradients against breast cancer cells. Together, 5-FU and curcumin significantly increased apoptosis in these cells, supporting their potential as a promising drug combination. These findings highlight a potential pathway toward a more effective breast cancer treatment strategy that may offer a promising new direction for future therapeutic development.
Recommended Citation
Davis, Sa'maira L.; Ari, Zeen; and Florian, Andrea, "Assessing Synergy with Curcumin & 5-FU in Breast Cancer" (2024). Science University Research Symposium (SURS). 160.
https://repository.belmont.edu/surs/160
