Cancer researchers have discovered that certain compounds that are found in fruits such as pomegranates may be effective in suppressing the formation of hormone-influenced breast tumors. The findings, published in the journal Cancer Prevention Research, focused on what are known as ellagitannins, which are phytochemicals that have antioxidant properties.

These chemicals are the basis for the cancer fighting qualities of the fruit because phytochemicals are believed to suppress the proliferative effects of estrogen, and by extension, inhibit the growth of estrogen induced tumor cells.

Estrogen is a hormone that is responsible for the development and maintenance of a woman’s sexual characteristics, as well as reproduction. When cells with estrogen receptors are exposed to the hormone, it stimulates cells reproduction, or proliferation, in the breast and uterus. Unfortunately, this proliferation may at times also involved the development of tumor cells.

Researchers in the current study wanted to see what effects the juice might have on a key enzyme (aromatase) that is responsible for the formation of estrogen, and by extension, tumor induction in breast tissue. By screening a number of ellagitannin-derived compounds in vitro, they discovered that many of them have the potential to lower the effects of estrogen on the cells. One compound in particular (urlithin B), which is a metabolite derived from the juice, was found to significantly inhibit estrogen-induced cell proliferation.

While the findings are promising, further inquiry is needed in order to see if the effects can be replicated in animal models, and eventually humans. Furthermore, more research needs to be done to better understand the complex interaction of all the components inside the fruit juice, since each individual compound does not act on its own.

Phytochemicals such as ellagitannins found in pomegranates, raspberries, and almonds, are plant compounds that are not essential for human life but are nonetheless believed to protect us from disease and the negative consequences of human metabolism, i.e., oxidative damage. Other important phytochemicals include lycopene in tomatoes, flavanoids in fruit, and isoflavones in soy. Phytochemicals are believed to affect tumor cell formation on a number of levels, including antioxidant activity, hormonal suppression, and the inhibition of DNA replication in cancer cells. Phytochemicals are found in a variety of foods, and good sources include fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes

In this country, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer mortality in women, second only to lung cancer. The causes are not exactly known, but certain risk factors can be controlled and may reduce a person’s risk. These include being overweight, hormone replacement therapy, birth control, alcohol consumption, smoking, and diet.

For more information, visit the website for the American Cancer Society, or speak with your doctor. To learn more about the benefits of fruits like pomegranates, consult with a nutritional expert and see the homepage for Pomegranate Information