Phytochemicals chemopreventive potential

Anti-Inflammatory Phytochemicals with Chemopreventive Potential... 

This phytochemical has been found to interact with microsomal xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes in rodents. Capsaicin has been proposed to inactivate cytochrome P-450 HEl by irreversibly binding to the active sites of the enzyme [135]. Besides cytochrome P-450 HEl, other isoforms of the P-450 super family are also reported to be inhibited by capsaicin. The inhibition by capsaicin of microsomal monooxygenases involved in carcinogen activation implies its chemopreventive potential. 

Naturally occurring compounds such as phytochemicals, which possess anticar-cinogenic and other beneficial properties, are referred to as chemopreventers. One of the predominant mechanisms of their protective action is due to their antioxidant activity and the capacity to scavenge free radicals. Among the most investigated chemopreventers are some vitamins, plant polyphenols, and pigments such as carotenoids, chlorophylls, flavonoids, and betalains. Resolution of the potential protective roles of... 

Biomarkers of risk, such as DNA adducts, are required that can measure the effects of exposure to a potential carcinogen and the modulating effects of protective factors such as dietary nutrients and phytochemicals. Biomarkers can thus be used to establish the role of phytochemicals in protecting against DNA damage and determine the optimal intake of certain phytochemicals. Application of knowledge of the risk factors involved in cancer formation and also of the role of factors that can protect against cancer in the diet and environment is likely to be instrumental in chemoprevention. 

Polyphenols, such as curcumin, quercetin and resveratrol, are some examples of naturally occurring phytochemicals with proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, beneficial cardiovascular effects," antiatherosclerotic effects, chemopreventive, and anticarcinogenic effects. An abundance of mechanistic information has become available on how polyphenols derived from dietary sources, which have putative chemopreventive properties, interfere with tumor promotion and progression. The effect of these bioactive compounds on the organism is influenced by their bioavailability, namely, their ability to be effectively absorbed by the human body. However, the polyphenols have a poor bioavailability and are rapidly metabolized by human body, losing their potential beneficial effects. ... 

Gerhauser C, Alt A, Klimo K, Knauft J, Frank N, Becker H (2002) Isolation and potential cancer chemopreventive activities of phenolic compounds of beer. Phytochem Rev... 

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