Lee Swanson Research Update

Scientific Review of Research Shows Anti-Cancer Properties of Cranberries

May 2007

A rich store of phytochemicals in cranberries helps protect the body against cancer. That's what Catherine C. Neto of the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Massachusetts found when she undertook an intensive review of cranberry research that has been published in recent years.

Physicians and health care professionals believe there is a clear association between a diet high in fruits and vegetables and a low risk of chronic disease. Phytonutrients (naturally derived plant compounds), particularly antioxidants, are increasingly being shown to help optimize human health.

Cranberries and cranberry products contain significant amounts of antioxidants and other phytonutrients that may help protect against heart disease, cancer and other diseases.

Neto reviewed numerous cranberry studies and published an article stating her findings in the Journal of Nutrition. She said, "This article reviews the existing research on the anticancer properties of cranberry fruit and key phytochemicals that are likely contributors to chemoprevention."

"Results from in vitro studies using a variety of tumor models show that polyphenolic extracts from Vaccinium macrocarpon (cranberry) inhibit the growth and proliferation of breast, colon, prostate, lung and other tumors, as do flavonols, proanthocyanidin oligomers and triterpenoids isolated from the fruit."

"The unique combination of phytochemicals found in cranberry fruit may produce synergistic health benefits. Possible chemopreventive mechanisms of action by cranberry phytochemicals include induction of apoptosis in tumor cells, reduced ornithine decarboxylase activity, decreased expression of matrix metalloproteinases associated with prostate tumor metastasis and anti-inflammatory activities including inhibition of cyclooxygenases. These findings suggest a potential role for cranberry as a dietary chemopreventive and provide direction for future research."

Journal of Nutrition 137:186S-193S, 2007

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