Researchers at the University of Delaware have identified a molecule in guava, psiguadial A, that could be key in developing new treatments for liver cancer. The molecule, found in the tropical fruit, has been successfully reproduced in the lab, paving the way for potential large-scale production for medical use.
Associate Professor William Chain, who led the study published in the journal Angewandte Chemie, explained that many clinically approved medicines are derived from natural products. However, natural resources are often insufficient for mass production. By following the team's 'recipe', chemists can now synthesise the molecule easily and at low cost.
Doctoral student Liam O'Grady, also involved in the research, said the team had 'shed light on an unknown pathway' to produce the molecule. The researchers are now collaborating with the National Cancer Institute to explore the molecule's effectiveness against various cancers.
Liver cancer remains a significant health challenge in the UK. According to Cancer Research UK, there were 6,579 new cases between 2017 and 2019, with 5,380 deaths. Liver Cancer UK reports 17 new diagnoses and 17 deaths each day. The disease is often diagnosed late, with only three in ten cases detected at an early stage when treatment is most effective.
Guava is already known for its health benefits, including high levels of vitamin C and potassium, which aid digestion and heart health. This new discovery adds to its potential as a source of affordable cancer therapies.
