Cranberries Makes Ovarian Cancer Chemo More Effective
Researchers have discovered that an extract from cranberries makes the platinum-based class of chemotherapy drugs 6 times more effective against platinum-resistant ovarian cancer cells. Researchers used cranberry extract from a commercially available cranberry juice drink to perform this in vitro study. Compounds isolated from cranberries have also been shown to kill human ovary, brain, and prostate cells in laboratory studies. This activity seems to come from chemicals called proanthocyanidins (PACs), which are unique to cranberries.
So far, this research is in the earliest stages, and has only been performed on cells in a laboratory setting, but it is a promising discovery nonetheless. Typically, ovarian cancer is treated with platinum-based drugs, but over time, cells become immune to the drugs, requiring higher, more toxic doses for tumor control. The possibility of improving tumor response using chemicals found naturally in fruit is an exciting development.
The studies will be moved into animal models next, in hopes that the response on tumors will be similar to those seen on cells in the laboratory. Perhaps one day, the treatment will one day be effective for women with ovarian cancer. In the meantime, experts don’t suggest consuming large quantities of cranberries without your doctor’s approval.
Puts a whole new perspective on that Thanksgiving cranberry sauce, doesn’t it?
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