Carcinogenesis is a complex process characterized by the uncontrolled proliferation of abnormal cells, influenced by environmental, genetic, and epigenetic factors. Chronic inflammation is undoubtedly one of the key contributors to carcinogenesis. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC) due to persistent inflammation resulting from continuous immune system activation and excessive immune cell recruitment. IBD is also linked to certain nutritional deficiencies, primarily due to dietary modifications necessitated by the disease's pathophysiology. Consequently, individualized nutritional supplementation appears to be a rational approach to addressing these deficiencies. The use of functional foods, including anti-inflammatory nutraceuticals, in individuals with IBD may play a crucial role in modulating cellular pathways that inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators. Thus, the regulation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) and G protein-coupled receptor 35 (GPR35) through dietary ligands appears to be of significant importance not only in the treatment of IBD and maintenance of remission but also in the prevention of tumorigenic transformation, particularly in genetically predisposed individuals. This narrative review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The search covered literature published between January 2000 and June 2024. Keywords included 'inflammatory bowel disease', 'colorectal cancer', 'AhR', 'aryl hydrocarbon receptor', 'GPR35', 'cytochrome P450', 'nutraceuticals', 'probiotics', and 'superfoods'. Only English-language articles were included. The selection focused on studies investigating mechanistic pathways and the role of dietary ligands in AhR and GPR35 activation in IBD and CRC. The SANRA guidelines for narrative reviews were followed to ensure transparency and minimize bias.
Poźniak et al. (Fri,) studied this question.