Lutein and Zeaxanthin May Block Colon Cancer Cell Growth
Lee Swanson Research Update
Korean researchers have found that carotenoids extracted from algae, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, can help block the growth of human colon cancer cells.
Lutein and zeaxanthin, more commonly known for eye health benefits, were not the only xanthophylls present in the Chlorella ellipsoidea (CEE) and Chlorella vulgaris (CVE) algae, but it was suggested they were the most bioactive. Scientists also found the extracts had a more powerful anti-cancer effect when used in combination than in isolation.
"These semi-purified extracts of CEE and CVE both inhibited the growth of HCT116 (the colon cancer cells) in a dose-dependent manner," researches said. "Considerable evidence supports the theory that some carotenoids, such as beta-carotene and lycopene, may interfere with cancer-related molecular pathways and change the expression of many proteins involved in apoptosis (cancer cell death)."
The researchers obtained the extracts from a range of suppliers. The extracts were washed, freeze-dried and refrigerated before being added to solutions and applied to the colon cancer sample cells. HPLC analysis was used as well as a hemocytometer to give a cancer cell count. The researchers noted that after 24 hours of incubation, dying cancer cells began "to lift from the surface monolayer, forming assorted sizes and spherical shapes." They said that the dying cells were "more obviously apparent after treatment with CEE and CVE."
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry Published online ahead of print.
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