Turmeric extract could help to cure bowel cancers
28 September 2010

Scientists at the University of Leicester are pioneering the use of an extract of turmeric, the commonly used ingredient that gives curry its yellow colour, to target cancer cells. The research is making use of actual tissue from tumours extracted from patients undergoing surgery. The aim is use tissue from the colorectal tumours to effectively target chemo-resistant cells using curcumin, an extract of the root turmeric. Dr Karen Brown, a Reader at the University, is the principal investigator of this new research, which is also being led by Dr Lynne Howells, of the Chemoprevention and Biomarkers Group at the University.

Dr Brown said: “Following treatment for cancer, small populations of cancer cells often remain which are responsible for disease returning. These cells appear to have different properties to the bulk of cells within a tumour, making them resistant to chemotherapy. Previous laboratory research has shown that curcumin, from turmeric, has not only improved the effectiveness of chemotherapy but has also reduced the number of chemo-resistant cells which has implications in preventing the disease returning.

“We hope that our work will lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms through which curcumin targets resistant cells in tumours. It should also help us identify those patient populations who are most likely to benefit from curcumin treatment in the future.”

Colorectal cancer accounts for over 600,000 deaths a year. It is the third leading cause of cancer deaths in the western world with risks of developing colorectal cancer increases with age. Studies show that a diet high in red meat and low in fresh fruit, vegetables, poultry and fish increases the risk of colorectal cancer

About turmeric

Turmeric is part of the ginger family and native to south Asia. It is commonly used as the orange/yellow powder is a spice for curries. Curcumin has an earthy, peppery flavour and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Its potential use in Alzheimer’s, arthritis and other disorders is also being investigated around the world.

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