Laboratory tests found that tectochrysin inhibited cancer-cell growth and spread, while animal experiments showed fewer metastases. Its safety and effectiveness in people remain untested.
Researchers tested tectochrysin, a natural compound found in propolis, in experiments involving colorectal cancer cells and mice. The findings were published in the journal Food & Function.
In cell experiments, the compound reduced cancer cells’ viability and their ability to multiply, move and invade surrounding tissue. It also hindered the formation of new blood vessels that support tumour growth. In mice, researchers reported lower tumour activity and fewer metastatic lesions in the liver and lungs.
The authors linked tectochrysin’s effects to the ERBB4 protein and related signalling pathways involved in tumour-cell growth and spread. The results so far come only from laboratory and animal studies. Before possible use in people can be assessed, researchers will need to study absorption, safety and effectiveness.