Histological and immunohistochemical evaluation of the chemopreventive role of lycopene in tongue carcinogenesis induced by 4-nitroquinoline-1-oxide

Results of the present study indicate that lycopene can exert protective effects against 4-NQO induced tongue carcinogenesis through reduction in cell proliferation and enhanced cellular adhesion, suggesting a new mechanism for the anti-invasive effect of lycopene. Further studies are needed to provide more definitive answers to the question of the anticancer effects of lycopene.