2008 Volume 5 Issue 1 Pages 19-26
Chemoprevention is currently regarded as one of the most promising avenues of cancer control. In the search for chemopreventive dietary plants and phytochemicals, the author has explored anti-tumor promotimg phytochemicals of vegetables and fruits in several Asian countries, using an inhibition test of tumor promoter-induced Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) activation. Extensive in vitro screening tests have found several dietary plants from subtropical zones to possess high potential. In particular, plants in families commonly ingested for purposes other than their nutritive value (i.e. as flavors, condiments, and occasionally traditional medicines) were shown to contain potent anti-tumor promoters. Of more than 50 in vitro anti-tumor promoters identified thus far, cancer preventive properties of 4 compounds from zingiberaceous (1′-acetoxychavicol acetate and zerumbone) and rutaceous (auraptene and nobiletin) plants have been further studied. The results of animal model experiments as well as modes of action, including anti-inflammation associated activities, are described. The present status of chemoprevention with food phytochemicals is also discussed.
