Scientists from the U.S. National Cancer Institute and Johns Hopkins University have discovered a new compound called CDDO-Im that has the potential to combat liver cancer in animals.
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| Cancer cells do not die but continuously reproduce, leading to metastasis. (Image: VNN) |
The compound stimulates enzymes in the body to eliminate harmful substances from cells and enhances resistance to cancer-causing toxins.
Researchers believe that since CDDO-Im is effective at very low doses, it could be applied in cancer treatment for humans, particularly effective in preventing cancers originating from strong inflammatory agents such as liver, colorectal, stomach, and prostate cancers.
CDDO-Im may also have high efficacy in preventing asthma, emphysema, and neurodegeneration. This compound is more than 100 times more effective than current chemotherapy agents and can inhibit the formation of tumors by interfering with the cellular anti-inflammatory process through the activation of Nrf2, a protein that plays a key role in protecting cells against environmental toxins.
The compound CDDO-Im belongs to a class of anti-cancer agents known as triterpenoids. It is synthesized from oleanolic acid, a naturally occurring compound found in various herbs.
