Researchers at Rutgers University in New Brunswick, N.J. found that pre-treating ovarian tumor cells with the juice increased the cancer-killing power of platinum drugs used in chemotherapy nearly six times.
The scientists are hopeful that the new findings, although preliminary, have the potential to save lives and reduce the harmful side effects associated with chemotherapy.
Science Daily quotes Ajay P. Singh, Ph.D., and Nicholi Vorsa from the University as saying, "This has opened up exciting possibilities for therapeutic intervention associated with platinum therapy."
However, the researchers have also warned that the study is experimental and that patients with ovarian cancer should always consult with their physicians before trying any type of anti-cancer therapy.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. Higher doses of the chemotherapy drugs, used in treatment of ovarian cancer, can cause unwanted side-effects, including nerve damage and kidney failure.
Past research indicates that other benefits of cranberry juice include ability to fight urinary tract infections, stomach ulcers, and cancer. The juice contains powerful antioxidants called 'A-type' proanthocyanidins that are unique to cranberries and not found in other fruits.
This research was reported at the 234th national meeting of the American Chemical Society on August 21, 2007.
