Annatto Tocotrienol Slows Breast Cancer Progression

PERUGIA, ItalyAnnatto tocotrienol supplementation may benefit breast cancer patients, according to new research by University of Perugia, Italy. Scientists found annatto tocotrienol (as DeltaGold®, from American River Nutrition) slowed the progression of mammary tumors in mice. The results were published in the March 2013 issue of Carcinogenesis.

Researchers studied the supplement's effects on the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2)/neu tumor model, which is found in approximately 25 percent of metastatic breast cancer cases (Carcinogenesis. 2013 Mar 14.). Annatto tocotrienol delayed mammary tumor development, and reduced the size and number of tumors and lung metastases incidence. In addition, scientists found a significant decrease in HER-2, which has been linked to breast cancer progression. Researchers believe the annatto supplementation increased oxidative stress and apoptosis, while arresting growth targeting cancer cells.

In January 2013, researchers linked low vitamin D levels to high risk of premenopausal breast cancer. Learn more about women's health, including breast cancer, in the INSIDER feature, "A Girl's Best Friend."