Can a plant extract induce the death of cancer cells and block their growth without harming healthy cells?
A study conducted by Hubei Medical University (China) demonstrates that polysaccharides extracted from the TINTO FIG® (Opuntia dillenii) have a direct effect on reducing tumor size , inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) , and inhibiting the cell cycle in rats with ovarian cancer. .
What was investigated?
50 SD rats were divided into 5 groups:
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Control group (healthy)
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Model group (untreated cancer)
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Three groups with low, medium and high doses of Opuntia dillenii polysaccharides (20, 40 and 60 mg/kg respectively)
The objective was to analyze:
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Tumor size
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Apoptosis rate in tumor cells
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Expression of key proteins in the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway and apoptosis:
Bcl-2, PI3K, Akt, PTEN, p-Akt and mTOR
Key results
Significant decrease in tumor size
| Cluster | Tumor size (mm³) | Tumor weight (g) |
|---|---|---|
| Model (untreated) | 797.65 ± 85.6 | 0.64 ± 0.10 |
| High dose | 179.63 ± 51.8 | 0.30 ± 0.05 |
The effect was dose-dependent: the higher the dose of polysaccharides, the greater the tumor reduction. .
Induction of apoptosis (tumor cell death)
| Cluster | Apoptosis rate (%) |
|---|---|
| Model | 2.69% |
| High dose | 19.22% |
The polysaccharides strongly promoted cell death in tumor cells , rather than their proliferation. Furthermore, cell cycle arrest occurred in the G1 phase , preventing tumor cells from dividing and growing.
Regulation of pro- and anti-apoptotic proteins
| Protein | Effect of the RED FIG® |
|---|---|
| Bcl-2 | ↓ Decreased: prevents apoptosis |
| PI3K, Akt | ↓ Decreased: They promote cell growth |
| p-Akt, mTOR | ↓ They decreased: they favor division and survival |
| PTEN | ↑ Increased: tumor inhibitor and apoptosis promoter |
This pattern demonstrates a direct regulation of molecular pathways involved in tumor progression , reinforcing the hypothesis that FIGO TINTO® may act as an antitumor agent modulating the cellular microenvironment .
Why is it important?
Ovarian cancer is one of the most lethal neoplasms of the female reproductive system, partly because it is detected late and conventional therapies generate severe side effects.
This study opens the door to natural complementary therapies that:
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Support cancer treatment
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Protect healthy cells
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They act as antioxidants and modulators of the immune system
Real-world application in nutraceuticals
The polysaccharides from FIGO TINTO® can be extracted using gentle processes and added to natural products aimed at:
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Functional antioxidant capsules
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Antitumor or detoxifying drinks
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Supplements for immunotherapy or complementary chemotherapy
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Formulas aimed at women at risk of or with a history of ovarian cancer
Which TUNO CANARIAS products already incorporate this principle?
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Digestive Creamer
Functional formula with FIGO RED® and fiber, with antioxidant and intestinal benefits -
BOOST with RED FIG®
Immune and energy support with antioxidant and regulatory action -
HIGO TINTO® Family Max
A healthy alternative to cocoa for the whole family, with a cell-protective effect -
Pure powder of organic RED FIG®
For custom formulas, shakes, or direct encapsulation
Conclusion
This study provides molecular and functional evidence that the polysaccharides in RED FIG® induce cancer cell death, block their growth, and regulate key cancer proteins . Its effect is dose-dependent and biologically relevant , making it an ingredient with enormous nutraceutical and clinical potential.
It's not just a desert plant. It's an ally in the fight against cancer.
Study reference
Yin Zi, Yu Xian-jun, Xu Chen-li (2019)
Effect of Opuntia dillenii Polysaccharide on Apoptosis of Ovarian Cancer Tissue in Rats
Modern Food Science and Technology , Vol. 35(9): 81–86.
