Broccoli has long been associated with a decreased risk of cancer as it contains a molecule that inactivates a gene which is known to play a role in a variety of common human cancers. Dubbed the “Achilles heel of cancer” the cruciferous vegetable has many benefits. Alongside kale, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts these vegetables help to kill off cancer cells, are low in calories and balance the hormone levels. Following a diet rich in these vegetables could help you live longer and combat diseases – choosing to fill your plate up with these vegetables will ensure good health.
We found a new important player that drives a pathway critical to the development of cancer, an enzyme that can be inhibited with a natural compound found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables
Pier Paolo Pandolfi, director of Cancer Center and Cancer Research Institute
In a recent study on mice and human cells, scientists found the indole-3-carbinol molecule can reawaken the cancer-fighting properties of a gene called PTEN.
Lead researcher and director of the Cancer Center and Cancer Research Institute at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Pier Paolo Pandolfi, said: “We found a new important player that drives a pathway critical to the development of cancer, an enzyme that can be inhibited with a natural compound found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables.”
“This pathway emerges not only as a regulator for tumour growth control, but also as an Achilles’ heel we can target with therapeutic options.”
To test this theory, Landolfi and colleagues carried out a series of experiments on cancer prone mice and human cells, the team revealed that a gene called WWP1 played a role in the development of cancer and an ingredient known as indole-3-carbinol, which is found in broccoli, helped to combat the cancer causing effects of WWP1.
Researchers have suggested that broccoli can help prevent the progression of cancer and help prevent the body from developing the disease.
A compound found in broccoli known as sulforaphane reduced the expression of long noncoding RNA’s in cancer cells. This disrupted the cells ability to form colonies – an official cause of metastatic cancer.
Metastasis is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths world-wide.
The 10 best cruciferous vegetables:
- Broccoli
- Arugula
- Bok choy
- Brussels sprouts
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Collard Greens
- Kale
- Radish
- Turnips
Top benefits of cruciferous vegetables:
- Contain cancer-fighting compounds
- Reduce inflammation
- Regulates blood sugar
- Promotes weight loss
- Enhances heart health
- Promotes oestrogen balance
We found a new important player that drives a pathway critical to the development of cancer, an enzyme that can be inhibited with a natural compound found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables
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