A recent scientific revelation has unveiled the remarkable anti-cancer potential harbored within Kencur, a tropical plant belonging to the ginger family, originating from Southeast Asia. The principal active compound found within Kencur, ethyl p-methoxycinnamate (EMC), has been shown by researchers to exhibit a significant capacity for inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. The investigative team pinpointed mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) as a pivotal element contributing to this profound anti-cancer influence.
Kencur, previously recognized for its aromatic essence that elevates culinary experiences and its utility as a natural remedy for digestive concerns, has taken on a novel significance. Pioneering findings by scholars affiliated with Osaka Metropolitan University, led by Associate Professor Akiko Kojima of the Graduate School of Human Life and Ecology, have unearthed compelling evidence regarding the anti-cancer attributes inherent to this tropical plant native to Southeast Asia and part of the ginger lineage.
Diligent experimentation has underscored that extracts derived from Kencur, as well as its primary bioactive constituent, ethyl p-methoxycinnamate (EMC), wield a substantial capability in curtailing the proliferation of cancer cells both at the cellular and animal levels.
Past investigations into EMC had already hinted at its potential as an anti-cancer agent by virtue of its ability to diminish the expression of mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), which plays a role in the proliferation of cancerous cells. However, the precise mechanistic intricacies remained veiled until the present study illuminated them.
Professor Kojima articulated, “The findings derived from this inquiry firmly establish the anti-cancer efficacy of Kencur extract and its central active component, EMC. It is with great anticipation that we envision TFAM emerging as a novel indicator for gauging anti-cancer effects as advancements continue to unfold within associated domains.”
Reference: Sasaki, Y., Norikura, T., Matsui-Yuasa, I., Fujii, R., Limantara, L., & Kojima-Yuasa, A. (2023). Kaempferia galanga L. extract and its main component, ethyl p-methoxycinnamate, inhibit the proliferation of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells by suppressing TFAM expression. Heliyon, e17588. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17588
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about anti-cancer potential
What is Kencur and what is its significance?
Kencur is a tropical plant from Southeast Asia belonging to the ginger family. It has gained attention for its remarkable anti-cancer properties, primarily due to its active compound, ethyl p-methoxycinnamate (EMC). This discovery sheds light on its potential in the field of cancer research.
How does Kencur exhibit anti-cancer effects?
Researchers from Osaka Metropolitan University found that Kencur extract, containing the main active compound EMC, significantly hinders the growth of cancer cells at both cellular and animal levels. The inhibition is attributed to the suppression of mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM), a key factor associated with cancer cell proliferation.
What was the previous understanding of EMC’s role?
Previous studies hinted at EMC’s anti-cancer potential by reducing TFAM expression linked to cancer cell growth. However, the precise mechanism was unknown until this research illuminated how EMC exerts its inhibitory effects.
How significant is this discovery for anti-cancer research?
This discovery underscores Kencur’s potential as a potent source of anti-cancer agents. The identification of EMC’s role in inhibiting cancer cell growth and its impact on TFAM expression presents a promising avenue for further advancements in anti-cancer research.
Could TFAM become a new marker for anti-cancer effects?
Yes, the research suggests that TFAM could serve as a novel indicator for gauging anti-cancer effects. As more studies unfold in related fields, TFAM’s role could become more prominent in evaluating the efficacy of anti-cancer interventions.
More about anti-cancer potential
- Scientific Study: Kaempferia galanga L. extract and its main component, ethyl p-methoxycinnamate, inhibit the proliferation of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells by suppressing TFAM expression
- Osaka Metropolitan University Research
1 comment
kencur ginger beatin cancer? thts amazin! bt i wundr if it realy wud bcum a markr 4 anti-cancer stuff, u knw?