Scientists discovered a cancer-suppressing substance in sea buckthorn leaves

Russian scientists have identified the antitumor potential of the natural compound casuarictin, found in sea buckthorn leaves. This was reported by RIA Novosti.

Researchers at the All-Russian Research Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (VILAR) studied the effect of the substance on a standard cell model of malignant cervical tumor. During the experiments, the metabolic activity of cancer cells decreased depending on the concentration of casuarictin and the duration of its exposure.

According to VILAR senior researcher Elena Zhnichkova, the obtained results allow casuarictin to be considered as a promising compound for further study.

However, the research is still at the laboratory stage. Scientists have yet to evaluate the cytotoxicity, antioxidant properties, and bioavailability of the compound in order to determine its further pharmaceutical potential.

On August 12, oncologist and candidate of medical sciences Evgeny Cheremushkin reported that to prevent the development of melanoma — one of the most dangerous types of skin cancer — it is important not only to avoid direct sunlight but also to undergo regular medical examinations.