Most of us have heard the familiar refrain of our mothers telling us to eat our vegetables. Whether or not we were paying attention is another story. Now, however, in yet another example of how we maybe should have been listening, researchers have found that a compound that results from the consumption of broccoli or brussel sprouts can block the development of certain cancer cells in animal models.

The substance in question, indole-3-carbinol (I3C), may inhibit cancer cells while leaving normal cells alone. The reason for this is because I3C affects the functioning of another molecule called Cdc25A, which is important for cell division and proliferation to occur. It appears that I3C inactivates Cdc25A in a way that blocks breast cancer cell growth.

To arrive at their findings, published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research, scientists first studied breast cancer cell cultures in the laboratory. By exposing them to I3C, they discovered the compounds inhibitory effects on Cdc25A, going so far as to locate the specific region that makes the molecule vulnerable.

The researchers then exposed I3C to tumors in animal models. When the compound was administered orally, tumor size was reduced by as much as 65%. To confirm the specific location of where Cdc25A that was affected, they introduced mutations in that region and found that I3C was no longer effective in inhibiting cancer cell growth.

The next step would be to continue testing the efficacy and safety of the compound, and then at some point develop a therapy that would be applicable to humans. That stage, however, could be years away. That does not mean that a person can embrace healthy eating habits today, which could include foods that are natural sources of I3C.

I3C is produced by the breakdown of a certain compound (glucosinolate glucobrassicin) that is present in high levels in cruciferous vegetables, which include broccoli, cauliflower, and brussel sprouts. Cruciferous vegetables are also believed to have numerous other healthful qualities, including being rich in antioxidants that are believed to help prevent heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, including breast cancer.

Breast cancer is cancer that forms in the tissues of the breast, usually in the glands the produce milk or the ducts that deliver it to the nipples. Though it occurs primarily in women, men can contract it, as well. The National Cancer Institute estimates that this year (2010) in the United States, there will be over 209,000 new cases of breast cancer in both women and men, which will result in over 40,000 new deaths.

If you have questions or concerns about breast cancer, speak with your physician. For more information, visit the homepage for BreastCancer.org and the website for the National Cancer Institute.