An anti-cancer property has been discovered in a popular grain

Compounds found in the outer shell of quinoa are capable of slowing the development of colorectal cancer while simultaneously enhancing the body's anti-tumor defenses, scientists from China have discovered.

As reported by BAKU.WS with reference to the journal Food & Function, specialists from the Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Molecular Engineering have established that triterpenoids — natural substances present in quinoa bran — play a special role in this process.

During experiments conducted both in laboratory conditions and in animal models, these compounds demonstrated a pronounced anti-tumor effect. At the same time, the researchers did not detect any toxic impact on vital organs, making the results particularly encouraging.

It was established that triterpenoids promote the accumulation of reactive oxygen species inside cancer cells. This disrupts mitochondrial function and triggers a cascade of enzymatic reactions involving caspases, which ultimately leads to apoptosis — programmed cell death. Thus, tumor growth is suppressed through the direct destruction of its structure.

In addition, the scientists identified the influence of these substances on the immune system. They activate endoplasmic reticulum stress and convert tumor cell death into an immunogenic form. As a result, signaling molecules are released, including ATP and the HMGB1 protein, which enhance tumor recognition by immune cells.

Against the backdrop of these processes, maturation of dendritic cells and active infiltration of CD8+ T-lymphocytes into tumor tissue were observed — these are precisely the cells that play a key role in destroying malignant formations. According to foreign experts, such a "vaccine-like" effect significantly increases the effectiveness of the immune response.

The study authors emphasize that they identified a dual mechanism of action: on one hand — direct destruction of cancer cells, and on the other — activation of immune defense. Despite the promising nature of the discovery, the scientists note the need for further clinical studies to confirm the obtained results and evaluate their application in medicine.