Date Published: 24 July 2005

Australian research suggests that two molecules from crushed pineapple stems may help fight cancer

Scientists at Queensland Institute of Medical Research (Australia) have recently reported that two molecules isolated from an extract of crushed pineapple stems have shown promise in fighting cancer growth. One molecule called CCS blocks a protein called Ras, which is defective in approximately 30% of all cancers. The other, called CCZ, stimulates the body's own immune system to target and kill cancer cells.

Bromelain, the extract studied by the scientists, is a rich source of enzymes and is widely used in various applications and processes, such as a meat tenderizer, to clarify beer and tan leather hides.

The Queensland team discovered that the extract also had pharmacological properties and could activate specific immune cells while, simultaneously, blocking the immune function of other cells.

Lead researcher Dr Tracey Mynott said:

" We suspected that different components of the crude mixture might be responsible for bromelain's biological effects.
. In searching for these components, we discovered the CCS and CCZ proteins and found that they could block growth of a broad range of tumour cells, including breast, lung, colon, ovarian and melanoma."

Both CCS and CCZ are protease enzymes, more usually associated with breaking down proteins, as in the digestive process.

Dr Mynott said it was the first time this class of enzymes had been shown to have a specific effect on the immune system. She explained that:

" The way CCS and CCZ work is different to any other drug in clinical use today.
. Therefore, CCS and CCZ will represent a totally new way of treating disease and potentially a whole new class of anti-cancer agent."

Comments from other experts in cancer research:

Dr Julie Sharp, at Cancer Research UK, said:

" The origin of many anti-cancer drugs can be found in nature.
. However, it's early days for this research and the real test will be to see if the effects seen in the lab can be reproduced successfully in patients."

What will happen next ?

QIMR has just been awarded further funds from the NH & MRC, which will be used to provide further proof of CCS and CCZ as drug development targets.
Of critical importance to attract investment by a commercial partner is the demonstration of:

i) additional in vivo proof of principle,
ii) reliable supply of the material and
iii) safety.

All these factors will be addressed in a two year research program. If the objectives of the research plan are all achieved, CCS or CCZ will be attractive targets for further investment by a major pharmaceutical company and would rapidly progress to human clinical trials.

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