Prostate cancer is the most common cancer and the leading cause of death among male cancer patients in Europe and the United States. The incidence of prostate cancer has been on the rise.
Lycopene and Prostate Health
Due to antioxidant solid capacity, lycopene can block the gene mutation of human cells under the action of external mutagen, and can inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells and accelerate the apoptosis of cancer cells. Therefore, lycopene has certain preventive and inhibitory effects on various tumors such as prostate cancer.
The abnormality of glutathione S-transferase P1 is considered to be one of the important factors in the occurrence and development of prostate cancer. research
Now, lycopene can induce the expression of GSTP1 gene through the Nrf2/ARE pathway in DU145 cells, thereby exerting a protective effect on prostate health.
Lycopene can stimulate mitochondrial pro-apoptotic factors through endogenous pathways, increase apoptosis, and inhibit insulin-like growth factors. Ultimately it inhibits the development of cancer cells and aids in the treatment of prostate cancer.
In addition, lycopene can also alleviate the gap junction dysfunction of Sertoli cells by inhibiting oxidative stress and apoptosis, and alleviate the testicular damage caused by benzopyrene.
Lycopene vs. Beta Carotene: Which Is Better For Cancer?
Lycopene is more potent than alpha-carotene and beta-carotene in inhibiting cell growth in a variety of human cancer cell lines. Compared with carotene, lycopene can more effectively make breast cancer cells proliferate and increase apoptosis. But only lycopene can disrupt cytoskeleton formation and selectively inhibit cells, thereby inhibiting cell cycle progression and ultimately cell proliferation.