Prostate cancer and chemoprevention by natural dietary phytochemicals

Prostate cancer is the second leading cancer among men in the United States. Several studies have correlated the development of prostate cancer with diet and life-style. Therefore, a balanced diet and improved life style might inhibit prostate cancer progression. Cancer chemoprevention has emerged as an important factor in controlling cancer development through natural or synthetic compounds. Oxidative stress is among the factors contributing to prostate cancer development. The transcription factor nuclear factor （erythroid-derived 2）-like 2 （Nrf2） controls detoxifying antioxidant enzymes expression by binding to the antioxidant response element （ARE） in the promoter of these genes to activate their expression. Many natural products can fight oxidative stress and protects cells from DNA damage by activating the Nrf2/ARE pathway. High consumption of fruits and vegetables can reduce disease incidence and invasive tumors. In this review, the roles of important fruit and vegetable phytochemicals in regulating prostate cancer progression and tumor growth are discussed.