Scientists Have Discovered How Broccoli Protects Us From Cancer

Author: Ivan Red Jr. Time for reading: ~1 minutes Last Updated: August 08, 2022

Scientists Have Discovered How Broccoli Protects Us From Cancer

Ingredient in many cruciferous plants, but most concentrated in broccoli is effective in preventing and suppressing cancer.

Studies in recent years have repeatedly shown that the compound sulforaphane - one of the many useful components of broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables is able to prevent the development of cancer or slow their development.

In this year's study, conducted at Oregon State University, a team of scientists suggested that they had found the mechanism they were looking for. They observed the effect of sulforaphane on cancer cells in prostate tissue. The compound surprised them with its pronounced ability to inhibit the expression of long non-coding RNA molecules ( lncRNA ) in prostate cancer cells. This took away the ability of cells to form colonies and cause cancer metastases (spread to other tissues and systems).

Until recently accepted as waste genetic molecules without significant function and without the ability to encode proteins, lncRNAs have reversed the idea of scientists about the metastatic ability of cancer and in recent months have been identified as major players in the development of many cancers - prostate, stomach, lung, on the breast, etc.

LncRNA is thought to have the ability to regulate gene expression - a process in which certain genes are "turned on" or "turned off" to do their job - the production of proteins. Disorders in the regulation of lncRNA are considered an important factor in the development of cancers, which quickly get out of control.

When the researchers applied sulforaphane to cancer cells, the levels of a specific lncRNA molecule, named LINC01116 , dropped dramatically. This led to a severely delayed development of cancer cells, a delayed spread of cancer metastases, and a fourfold decrease in the ability of harmful cells to form colonies.

According to scientists, sulforaphane is an excellent weapon against cancer, which not only prevents the appearance but also limits the spread of cancer in the human body. They are convinced that taking the compound with food would have great benefits for the prevention of cancer.

The highest concentrations of sulforaphane are found in broccoli - their weekly consumption is very likely to prevent cancer, the researchers believe. Other foods rich in the anti-cancer compound are Brussels sprouts and common cabbage , cauliflower , bok choy , mustard , radishes and horseradish .

Scientists Have Discovered How Broccoli Protects Us From Cancer

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