Effects of the MCP-1 synthesis inhibitor bindarit on tumorigenesis and inflammatory markers in the C3(1)/SV40Tag mouse model of breast cancer

•Bindarit significantly decreased tumor number, but not tumor volume in C3(1)/SV40Tag mice.•Bindarit reduced the concentration and expression of MCP-1 within the tumor microenvironment.•Several macrophage and inflammatory related factors were also reduced by bindarit. Breast cancer, the most deadly cancer in women, is characterized by elevated levels of inflammation within and surrounding the tumor, which can lead to accelerated growth, invasion and metastasis. Macrophages are central to the inflammatory milieu and are recruited to the tumor microenvironment by several factors including monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1). Using the anti-inflammatory molecule bindarit to target MCP-1, we investigated the role of this chemokine on macrophage related inflammation and mammary tumorigenesis in a transgenic mouse model of breast cancer. C3(1)/SV40Tag mice and wild type FVB/N were randomized to either control or 0.5% bindarit diet from 4 to 21weeks of age. Tumor number and volume were recorded over time and at sacrifice. Macrophage markers as well as inflammatory meditators were examined in the tumor tissue and mammary glands. Circulating MCP-1 and IL-6 were measured by ELISA. Bindarit treatment reduced tumor number (P