I saw an interesting article in a Finnish magazine last week. The article gave an overview of new research of the health benefits of Finnish berries and possible benefits in preventing cancer. Some of the jargon used in scientific research and details on things like enzymes and mechanisms can be difficult to understand if you are not trained on the topics. Thankfully this article put it in laymen terms and it was easy to follow to learn about the quality of the research and its results.
Sirtuin 6 Enzyme
Berries naturally contain anthocyanins and colors which increase the activity of sirtuin 6 enzyme in cancer cells. This was shown in the newest research published by the University of Eastern Finland. The Finnish-American study included researchers from the University of Eastern Finland and the National Institute on Ageing in the US.
Being able to adjust the enzyme opens new possibilities in cancer treatment. Sirtuins are enzymes regulating the expression of genes that control the function of cells through key cellular signalling pathways. Ageing causes changes in sirtuin function, and these changes contribute to the development of various diseases. Sirtuin 6, or SIRT6 for short, is a less well-known enzyme that is also linked to glucose metabolism.
Interesting results
Berries get their rich red, deep blue, and beautiful purple color from nature's natural colorant, anthocyanin. According to the study, cyanidin increased SIRT6 enzyme levels in human colorectal cancer cells. The most interesting results of our study relate to cyanidin, which is an anthocyanin found abundantly in wild bilberry, blackcurrant and lingonberry,” says Minna Rahnasto-Rilla, Doctor of Pharmacy, the lead author of the article.
Cancer Prevention
The researchers also designed a computer-based model that allowed them to predict how different flavonoid compounds in plants can regulate the SIRT6 enzyme.
The findings indicate that anthocyanins increase the activation of SIRT6, which may play a role in cancer pathogenesis. The study also lays a foundation for the development of new drugs that regulate SIRT6 function.
Working at the School of Pharmacy of the University of Eastern Finland, the Sirtuin Research Group studies whether anthocyanins found in berries could activate SIRT6 function and, consequently, reduce the expression of cancer genes and cancer cell growth. The group also develops new compounds targeting the epigenetic regulation of gene function.
The findings were published in Scientific Reports.
As the research result show, Finnish berries truly are super! Reeta and I are especially proud to be able to offer you super berries from the purest country in the world.
By using 1 tablespoon of Finnish NordicNordic super berries a day, you are supporting the overall well-being of your body!
With health & love,
Nina