RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Blue Light Activates Phase 2 Response Proteins and Slows Growth of A431 Epidermoid Carcinoma Xenografts JF Anticancer Research JO Anticancer Res FD International Institute of Anticancer Research SP 6305 OP 6313 VO 34 IS 11 A1 ALPESH D. PATEL A1 SHAUN ROTENBERG A1 REGINA L.W. MESSER A1 JOHN C. WATAHA A1 KALU U.E. OGBUREKE A1 VERONICA V. MCCLOUD A1 PETRA LOCKWOOD A1 STEPHEN HSU A1 JILL B. LEWIS YR 2014 UL http://ar.iiarjournals.org/content/34/11/6305.abstract AB Background: Recent studies suggest that light in the UVA range (320-400 nm) activates signaling pathways that are anti-inflammatory, antioxidative and play a critical role in protection against cancer. These effects have been attributed to NF-E2-related factor (NRF2)-mediated up-regulation of ‘phase 2’ genes that neutralize oxidative stress and metabolize electrophiles. We had previously shown that small doses of blue light (400-500 nm) had selective toxicity for cultured oral tumor cells and increased levels of peroxiredoxin phase 2 proteins, which led to our hypothesis that blue light activates NRF2 signaling. Materials and Methods: A431 epidermoid carcinoma cells were treated in culture and as nude mouse xenografts with doses of blue light. Cell lysates and tumor samples were tested for NRF2 activation, and for markers of proliferation and oxidative stress. Results: Blue light activated the phase 2 response in cultured A431 cells and reduced their viability dose dependently. Light treatment of tumors reduced tumor growth, and levels of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and oxidized proteins. Discussion: Cellular responses to these light energies are worth further study and may provide therapeutic interventions for inflammation and cancer.