Mesothelioma is a very aggressive cancer with a low survival rate and limited treatment options. This cancer may be associated with exposure to asbestos. In any case, this is its only known risk factor. Its incidence is increasing, particularly among women.
Mesothelioma affects the serosa (membranes surrounding the organs): by far the most common location (85 to 90% of cases) is the pleura (enveloping the lungs), then to a lesser extent, the peritoneum (enveloping the viscera of the cavity). abdominal) in 8 to 10% of cases. Other locations are possible (pericardium, testicular vaginal) but very rare.
A new study, published in the journal Nutrients demonstrated that capsaicin, a compound found in chili peppers that gives them their spicy taste, could become a source of new natural drugs against mesothelioma.
Capsaicin reduces resistance to chemotherapy
“Capsaicin exerts antitumor activity in mesothelioma cells“, describe the researchers.
To conduct this research, the authors showed that capsaicin could improve treatment by reducing resistance to cisplatin. Cisplatin is a chemotherapy used in the treatment of several cancers, including lung, ovarian and testicular cancer. Although its anti-tumor effectiveness is proven, this therapy is also accompanied by side effects, notably intense pain and damage to the kidneys, which can go as far as acute renal failure in a third of cases.
Capsaicin may also reduce the spread of mesothelioma
“This research could pave the way for other studies to evaluate the use of capsaicin for the treatment of mesotheliomasays Antonio Giordano, MD, Ph.D., president of the Sbarro Health Research Organization (SHRO) and professor at Temple University. There is evidence that capsaicin may sensitize mesothelioma cells to chemotherapy, making treatment more effective, and that it may reduce the spread of mesothelioma.
This is not the first study to identify the health benefits of chili peppers. Capsaicin also has anti-inflammatory properties, already known, which reduce the risk of developing cardiometabolic diseases. Chilli pepper is also blessed with vitamins A, C, E, K, B6 and PP and trace elements, such as copper, iron, magnesium, manganese and potassium.
In addition, regular consumption of chili during meals helps reduce the need for insulin. This spice, full of antioxidants, is therefore particularly recommended for people suffering from diabetes. Not to mention its “fat-burning” effect, highlighted by several studies, which makes it interesting for accelerating the metabolism.
Source: www.topsante.com
