Cancerous tumors depend on the formation of new blood vessels to grow and spread, a process known as angiogenesis, which if prevented would help fight cancer and other conditions that also require the formation of blood vessels. Now, a research team from the Malaga Biomedical Research Institute and Nanomedicine Platform (IBIMA BIONAND Platform), together with the University of Malaga (UMA), has released an innovative study that shows the potential of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) to stop angiogenesis.
Antiangiogenic treatments or substances focus on stopping this key process in diseases such as cancer. The study, which has been published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, reveals that an EVOO extract from the Picual variety can inhibit the development of new blood vessels, suggesting new therapeutic applications for the treatment of diseases related to angiogenesis. , such as cancer and macular degeneration.
EVOO, which is a key component of the Mediterranean diet, is already recognized for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, this research, which uses advanced proteomics techniques, goes further by identifying how certain phenolic compounds present in EVOO affect the activity of endothelial cells, which are responsible for the creation of new blood vessels. These compounds reduce cell migration, adhesion and invasion, as well as inhibiting the formation of vascular structures in laboratory experiments.
“The phenolic compounds in extra virgin olive oil have a direct effect on the formation of blood vessels, which could have therapeutic applications in cancer”
“Our study demonstrates that the phenolic compounds in extra virgin olive oil are not only beneficial for health, but also have a direct effect on the formation of blood vessels, which could have therapeutic applications in diseases where angiogenesis plays a role.” transcendental in the course of the disease, as in cancer,” declared Ana Dácil Marrero, one of the main authors and member of the research group ‘Molecular Bases of Biological Systems (SIBIUMA)’ of the UMA.
EVOO, an ally in the prevention and treatment of diseases
This study analyzes the antiangiogenic potential of an extract of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) of the Picual variety from Jaén. The effects of this extract on endothelial cells, responsible for the formation of blood vessels, were investigated, which is relevant for diseases such as cancer.
The main findings are:
- Composition: EVOO extract is rich in phenolic compounds, including oleuropein and ligstroside-aglycone, known for their beneficial health properties.
- Effects on cells: The extract inhibited several key processes for angiogenesis, such as migration, adhesion, invasion and formation of tube-like structures, which mimic the formation of blood vessels. Furthermore, the extract induced apoptosis (programmed cell death) in endothelial cells at high doses.
- Proteomics: a detailed analysis of the proteins in the treated cells was performed, revealing that the extract affected proteins involved in angiogenesis and cell survival. Some proteins that promote blood vessel formation, such as EFEMP1 and CCN2, were reduced, while others that inhibit this process were increased.
- Implications: The results suggest that EVOO phenolic compounds could have therapeutic applications in angiogenesis-dependent diseases, such as cancer, macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
Miguel Ángel Medina, professor at the UMA and principal investigator of the group, highlights the relevance of the study, pointing out that the results obtained confirm that “the use of EVOO extracts to inhibit angiogenesis is a promising tool that encourages us to continue researching in this area.” line, with an approach that could complement current treatments and offer less invasive alternatives in various pathologies in the future.”
Source: Malaga Biomedical Research Institute and Nanomedicine Platform (IBIMA BIONAND Platform)
