Convergent mitochondrial toxicity of fluorinated agents in oncological anaesthesia: sevoflurane, 5-fluorouracil, and the ACOD1/itaconate immune axis - Report - MDSpire

Convergent mitochondrial toxicity of fluorinated agents in oncological anaesthesia: sevoflurane, 5-fluorouracil, and the ACOD1/itaconate immune axis

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  • Ivan N. Dushin

  • May 20, 2026

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Mitochondrial Toxicity from Fluorinated Compounds in Cancer Anesthesia

Overview

This report discusses the potential mitochondrial toxicity associated with sevoflurane and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in cancer patients, highlighting the role of the ACOD1/itaconate immune pathway. The findings suggest that these agents may inhibit aconitase 2, leading to immune dysregulation during the perioperative period.

Background

Understanding the interactions between anesthetic agents and cancer treatments is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes. The ACOD1/itaconate pathway plays a significant role in immune regulation, particularly in the context of tumor immunity. Disruption of this pathway during surgery may have implications for tumor progression and patient recovery.

Data Highlights

No numerical data or trial data were provided in the source material.

Key Findings

  • Sevoflurane and 5-FU may inhibit aconitase 2, affecting the ACOD1/itaconate immune pathway.
  • ACOD1-derived itaconate regulates tumor immune surveillance and modulates inflammatory responses.
  • Inhibition of aconitase leads to decreased cis-aconitate, impacting itaconate synthesis.
  • The perioperative period is critical for maintaining anti-tumor immune surveillance in cancer patients.
  • Pre-operative genotyping for DPYD and ACOD1 variants may guide anesthetic technique selection.

Clinical Implications

Clinicians should consider the potential immunological effects of sevoflurane and 5-FU during cancer surgeries. Pre-operative assessments, including genetic testing, may help tailor anesthetic approaches to mitigate risks associated with mitochondrial toxicity.

Conclusion

The interplay between anesthetic agents and cancer therapies warrants further investigation to optimize perioperative care and improve patient outcomes in oncological settings.

Related Resources & Content

  1. The ASCO Post, 2014 -- Methotrexate and Fluorouracil Toxicities: A Collaborative Practice Approach to Prevention and Treatment
  2. Archives of Toxicology, 2021 -- Characterizing the Cellular Response to Inhibitors of the Electron Transport Chain Uncovers Specific Signaling Pathways Induced by Mitochondrial Disruption
  3. Archives of Toxicology, 2025 -- Reviewing the thoroughness of human safety testing for succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors: fluopyram as a case study
  4. Impact of general anaesthesia on breast cancer survival, 2023 -- a 5-year follow up of a pragmatic, randomised, controlled trial, the CAN-study
  5. NCCN Flash Update, 2025 -- Changes to Colon Cancer Guidelines, Version 3.2025
  6. Basic Research in Cardiology — Strategies for Protecting the Heart Against Anthracycline-Induced Cardiotoxicity
  7. Metabolic Messengers: itaconate
  8. Impact of general anaesthesia on breast cancer survival: a 5-year follow up of a pragmatic, randomised, controlled trial, the CAN-study, comparing propofol and sevoflurane - ScienceDirect
  9. NCCN Flash Update: Changes to Colon Cancer Guidelines, Version 3.2025 | Pharmacy Times

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