 "GROUNDBREAKING! Scientists discover plant-derived compound that stops cancer growth")
synopsis
In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have identified a naturally occurring compound capable of inhibiting a key enzyme linked to cancer growth and neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS).
In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have identified a naturally occurring compound capable of inhibiting a key enzyme linked to cancer growth and neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS).
According to a report in SciTechDaily, the study, published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry, reveals that a plant-derived flavonoid called sulfuretin effectively blocks an enzyme tied to both cancer progression and the breakdown of myelin—the protective sheath surrounding neurons. Conducted at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) using cell models, the research lays the foundation for further trials in animal models to determine the compound’s full therapeutic potential, effectiveness, and possible side effects.
“We think this is a drug that could have impact in a lot of different areas,” remarked Larry Sherman, Ph.D., a professor in OHSU’s Division of Neuroscience at the Oregon National Primate Research Center.
The study demonstrated that sulfuretin, along with two synthetic compounds tested on live cells, effectively inhibits the activity of a hyaluronidase enzyme—specifically CEMIP (cell migration-inducing and hyaluronan-binding protein). This enzyme naturally degrades hyaluronic acid, a critical molecule for various biological functions. However, when broken down into smaller fragments, hyaluronic acid can cause severe health issues in two significant ways:
Disrupting Myelin Repair: It prevents the maturation of oligodendrocytes, the specialized cells responsible for producing myelin. This damage is associated with MS, stroke, traumatic brain injuries, dementia, and even developmental conditions like cerebral palsy in premature infants.
Fueling Cancer Growth: In tumors, excessive hyaluronidase activity allows cancer cells to multiply unchecked, bypassing natural cell death mechanisms. “Now we have an inhibitor that could actually stop that,” explained Sherman, who is also a professor of cell, developmental, and cancer biology at the OHSU School of Medicine.
Beyond cancer and MS: A wide-ranging medical application
CEMIP’s role extends beyond just MS and cancer; it has been implicated in osteoarthritis, certain skin infections, brain damage caused by heavy alcohol use, and possibly even Alzheimer’s disease. The study’s findings suggest that sulfuretin could serve as a promising inhibitor for treating multiple neurodegenerative and inflammatory disorders.
This remarkable discovery is the result of years of meticulous research led by Angela Hoffman, Ph.D., a now-retired chemistry professor at the University of Portland. For decades, undergraduate students in her lab painstakingly screened countless plant compounds, searching for a natural substance capable of neutralizing hyaluronidase activity.
“Over the years, her students have been grinding up these flowers, extracting molecules, and testing to see if any of them blocked hyaluronidase activity,” said Sherman. “Finally, a couple of years ago, they found a compound that was promising.”
The breakthrough was confirmed by Alec Peters, a graduate researcher in Sherman’s lab at OHSU, who discovered that sulfuretin successfully inhibited CEMIP activity in tumor cells and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells—the cells responsible for generating myelin.
Hoffman, who recently retired after 35 years in academia to lead her convent, emphasized the significance of her students’ dedication. “Directing the students to be able to do this kind of research helps them in their careers,” she said. “This discovery could be useful for Alzheimer’s or other neurodegenerative conditions. As long as the underlying problem relates to hyaluronic acid being broken apart, this could be helpful for people.”
What’s next?
With promising results in cellular models, the next critical step is to test sulfuretin in animal models to evaluate its effectiveness in real-world biological systems. Scientists hope this research could pave the way for groundbreaking treatments that address multiple life-altering diseases with a single, plant-derived compound.
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