Stevia Extract Can Destroy Pancreatic Cancer Cells
Researchers at Hiroshima University (Japan) have discovered that stevia leaf extract fermented with lactic acid bacteria can effectively suppress the growth of pancreatic cancer cells while causing minimal harm to healthy cells.
The study’s results were published in the prestigious scientific journal International Journal of Molecular Sciences (IJMS).
Research Process and Findings
The researchers used the lactic acid bacteria strain Lactobacillus plantarum SN13T to ferment stevia leaf extract (FSLE). In laboratory tests, the fermented extract demonstrated significantly stronger inhibition of the growth of pancreatic cancer cells (PANC-1 cell line) compared to regular, non-fermented extract.
Additionally, the treatment showed low toxicity toward healthy human kidney cells (HEK-293 cell line), indicating its potential safety for non-cancerous tissues.
Key Anti-Cancer Compound: CAME
The primary compound responsible for the anti-tumor effect was identified as methyl chlorogenate (CAME) — a methyl ester of chlorogenic acid. The fermentation process significantly increased the concentration of this compound, enhancing the extract’s biological activity.
Why It Matters
Pancreatic cancer is known as one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat cancers, with a 5-year survival rate of less than 10%. This makes the discovery of natural compounds with anti-cancer properties especially important for future treatment options.
Next Step: Animal Testing
The next stage of research will involve animal trials. Scientists aim to determine the most effective and safest dosage levels for potential therapeutic use.
