Immune effects of new molecules

Scientists in Australia say molecules isolated from bromelain, which is found in pineapple stems, show promise in fighting cancer growth. One molecule – CCS - blocks a protein called Ras, which is defective in approximately 30 per cent of cancers, while CCZ stimulates the immune system to target and kill cancer cells. Bromelain also has pharmacological properties and may activate specific immune cells while blocking the immune function of other cells, according to a team at the Queensland Institute of Medical Research. Lead researcher Dr Tracey Mynott says, “We [have] discovered the CCS and CCZ proteins and found that they could block growth of a broad range of tumour cells, including breast, lung, colon, ovarian and melanoma.” CCS and CCZ are both protease enzymes, and, according to Dr Mynott, this is the first time such enzymes have been shown to have a specific effect on the immune system.

BBC