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Flaxseed and lignans increase cecal beta-glucuronidase activity in rats
M Jenab1, S E Rickard, L J Orcheson
1Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of Toronto, ON, Canada.
Nutrition and Cancer
|June 16, 1999
Summary
Flaxseed and its lignans may benefit colon health by influencing bacterial beta-glucuronidase activity. This enzyme
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Gastroenterology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Flaxseed consumption is linked to reduced colon cancer risk, attributed to its lignan content.
- Bacterial beta-glucuronidase activity is implicated in increasing colon cancer risk.
- The precise role of beta-glucuronidase in flaxseed's protective effects requires elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between flaxseed and lignan intake and bacterial beta-glucuronidase activity.
- To determine if beta-glucuronidase activity plays a role in the colon cancer-protective mechanisms of flaxseed.
Main Methods:
- Female rats were fed a high-fat diet supplemented with varying amounts of flaxseed or secoisolariciresinol diglycoside (SDG).
- Bacterial beta-glucuronidase activity in the cecum was measured.
- Urinary lignan excretion was quantified to assess absorption and circulation.
Main Results:
- Significant positive correlations were observed between flaxseed/SDG intake and both specific and total beta-glucuronidase activity.
- Increased flaxseed or SDG intake led to higher urinary lignan excretion.
- Lignan excretion was significantly related to beta-glucuronidase activity levels.
Conclusions:
- Contrary to previous assumptions, beta-glucuronidase activity may play a beneficial role in the context of flaxseed and lignan consumption.
- This enzyme might enhance mammalian lignan absorption and enterohepatic circulation, contributing to colon cancer protection.
- Further research is warranted to fully understand the interplay between diet, gut microbiota, and cancer prevention.