| Abstract: |
It has been known for decades that at least a few types of human cancer are related to substances in our environment, i.e. the chemical composition of our food, drink, atmosphere, as demonstrated by defined tests for mutagenicity and carcinogenicity. Attention has recently focussed on substances in the environment that act as antimutagens (desmutagens), or protective against carcinogenesis. Plant phenolics, originally hypothesized to inhibit mutagenesis and/or carcinogenesis by virtue of antioxidant or electrophile trapping mechanisms, can also act as modulators of arachidonic metabolism cascade pathways. Certain plant phenols can be effective inhibitors of chemical mutagens, in vitro, and/or carcinogenesis in vivo. The historical origins, hypothesis of actions, current status and potential adverse effects of die utility of plant phenolics to reduce risk of cancer are discussed, as well as future possibilities and needs and objectives for future research. |
