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Published on: March 10, 2015
The Natural HASPIN Inhibitor Coumestrol Suppresses Intestinal Polyp Development, Cachexia, and Hypogonadism in a
Hiromitsu Tanaka1, Shunsuke Matsuyama1, Tomoe Ohta1
1Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagasaki International University, Sasebo 859-3298, Nagasaki, Japan.
Abstract:
(1) Background: HASPIN kinase is involved in regulating spindle function and chromosome segregation, as well as phosphorylating histone H3 at Thr3 in mitotic cells. Several HASPIN inhibitors suppress cancer cell proliferation. It was recently reported that coumestrol from bean sprouts inhibits HASPIN, and a cultivation method for bean sprouts containing large amounts of coumestrol has been established. Here, we showed the effects of bean sprout ingestion on intestinal polyp development, cachexia, and hypogonadism in a mouse model of familial adenomatous polyposis (Apc). (2) Methods: Apc mice were randomized into control and treatment groups. Mice in the control group were given the standard diet, while those in the treatment group were given the same standard diet with the addition of 15% bean sprouts. Treatments were commenced at 7 weeks old and analyses were performed at 12 weeks old. (3) Results: ingesting bean sprouts suppressed the development of intestinal polyps, cachexia, and hypogonadism, and also increased serum levels of testosterone in male wild-type and Apc mice. (4) Conclusions: ingesting bean sprouts helps prevent cancer and increases serum levels of testosterone in a mouse model. These results are expected to be applicable to humans.
Insights
Bean sprout consumption was found to prevent intestinal polyps, cachexia, and hypogonadism in a mouse model. This dietary intervention also increased testosterone levels, suggesting potential benefits for human health.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- HASPIN kinase regulates cell division and histone phosphorylation.
- HASPIN inhibitors show anti-cancer properties.
- Coumestrol in bean sprouts inhibits HASPIN.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of bean sprout ingestion on intestinal polyps, cachexia, and hypogonadism.
- To evaluate bean sprouts as a potential cancer preventative and testosterone-boosting agent.
Main Methods:
- Familial adenomatous polyposis (Apc) mice were used in a controlled study.
- Mice were fed a standard diet or a diet supplemented with 15% bean sprouts from 7 to 12 weeks of age.
Main Results:
- Bean sprout ingestion significantly suppressed intestinal polyp development.
- Bean sprouts reduced cachexia and hypogonadism in the mouse model.
- Serum testosterone levels were increased in both wild-type and Apc mice fed bean sprouts.
Conclusions:
- Dietary bean sprouts demonstrate preventative effects against cancer and associated conditions.
- Bean sprout consumption may offer a natural strategy to increase testosterone levels.
- Findings suggest potential human applications for bean sprout-based health interventions.
