Washington, Sept. 4 (SANA) Natural compounds found in dark sweet cherries may help slow the growth and spread of triple-negative breast cancer, according to a new study in mice that researchers say could point to potential complementary approaches to treatment.
Researchers at Texas A&M University examined the effects of anthocyanins, naturally occurring compounds that give dark cherries their color, on triple-negative breast cancer, SciTechDaily reported Wednesday.
Triple-negative breast cancer lacks estrogen and progesterone receptors as well as the HER2 protein, leaving patients with fewer treatment options. The disease is also more likely to spread to other organs, including the lungs and brain.
Giuliana Noratto, a researcher in food science and technology at Texas A&M, said the cancer is characterized by rapidly dividing cells, increasing the risk of metastasis and recurrence after treatment.
In experiments, mice given anthocyanin-rich extracts before tumor implantation showed slower cancer growth without noticeable side effects, according to the study.
Researchers cautioned that the findings are preliminary and that further studies are needed to determine whether the compounds are safe and effective in humans.
The findings could eventually contribute to research into complementary strategies for treating aggressive forms of breast cancer.
I.Z/A
