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Resveratrol for Pancreatic Cancer
August 31, 2009
Researchers at Rochester University have shown, for the first time, that resveratrol (a natural antioxidant) can help destroy pancreatic cancer.
Researchers led by Dr. Paul Okunieff, chief of Radiation Oncology at the university, gave resveratrol to patients with pancreatic cancer prior to radiation treatment. Dr. Okunieff’s team found that when pancreatic cancer cells were doubly assaulted (e.g. pre-treated with resveratrol then irradiated), they were much more likely to self-destruct. The result was apoptosis, a type of cell death which is an important goal of cancer therapy.
Dr. Okunieff’s research showed there is little evidence to support the fear that antioxidants may protect tumors, by showing that resveratrol injures the nexus of malignant cells while protecting normal tissue from the harmful effects of radiation. Resveratrol is most abundant in the skin of red grapes. Raspberries, blueberries, and peanuts are also excellent sources.
Topics: Health News