Calwineries

Anti-mutagenic mechanism of polyphenols

Recent research into polyphenols and cancer has shown a possible mechanism of action that explains the results of past studies. Research indicates that the growth of cancerous cells could be inhibited by polyphenols that interfere with a series of signal transduction pathways. These molecules include epicatechin, catechin, taxifoin, and also the flavanoids; proanthocyanidins and procyanidins

Signal transduction pathways are one of the ways that the interior of a cell can communicate with the exterior. When a molecule affects these pathways, a multitude of effects can be seen. For polyphenols, these include reduced invasive properties, slowed angiogenesis and ultimately apoptosis, “cell suicide.”