Scientists discover cancer resistant properties of the Indian Long Pepper

Scientists from UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas have studied the anti cancer properties of a spicy Indian pepper plant, The Indian Long Pepper.

Using X ray crystallography, scientists created molecular structures identifying a chemical called Piperlongumine (PL), a chemical that has previously shown activity against many cancers including prostate, breast, colon, lung, leukaemia and lymphoma.

The long pepper spice is native to India and Southeast Asia commonly used in cooking stews and other dishes.  Dating back thousands of years is used frequently in Ayurvedic medicine. 

"This study illustrates the importance of examining and re-examining our theories.  In this case we learned something fundamentally new about a 3,000 year old medical claim using modern science," said Dr Westover, Assistant Professor of Biochemistry and Radiation Oncology from Harold C. Simmons Comprehensive Cancer Center. 

About UT Southwestern Medical Center:  UT Southwestern is an academic medical Center in Dallas, integrating pioneering biomedical research with clinical care and education.  The institution includes many distinguished members including 6 who have been awarded Nobel Prizes.