Context:
Scientists at the Philippines-based International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) have identified a few rice varieties with anti-oxidant and anti-cancer properties.
- Institute:
International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), Philippines - Research Publication:
Journal – Food Hydrocolloids and Health
Key Research Highlights
- Sample Size:
- Screened 1.32 lakh rice accessions worldwide.
- Focused on 800 pigmented (coloured) rice varieties for detailed analysis.
- Discovery:
- Identified 6 pigmented rice lines with very high antioxidant levels comparable to superfoods like blueberries and chia seeds.
- These six rice lines exhibited strong anti-cancer effects in laboratory tests on colorectal and breast cancer cell lines.
- Unique Feature:
- Extracts showed cytotoxicity (killing effect) only in cancer cells, sparing healthy cells, unlike many chemotherapeutic drugs which harm healthy cells too.
- This suggests a safer treatment profile.
Testing and Supplement Development
- In Vitro Bioavailability:
- Tests showed antioxidant and anti-cancer biomolecules were absorbed during the gastric phase.
- Rice Bran Extract Supplement:
- Produced by safe ethanol extraction and microencapsulation, forming a water-soluble multi-nutrient supplement.
- 7.5 ÎĽg/mL dose showed anti-cancer effects comparable to some chemotherapy drugs in cell line tests.
- Retention of Properties:
- Cooking the rice retains about 70% of antioxidant and anti-cancer benefits.
Notable Rice Varieties Identified
- Ketan Hitam (purple rice): Origin – Indonesia
- Balatino (purple rice): Origin – Philippines
- Kintuman (red rice): Origin – Philippines
Significance
- Potential development of functional foods and nutraceuticals targeting cancer prevention.
- Promotes dietary solutions with fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy.
- Offers new opportunities for agricultural and health sectors to combat cancer through natural foods.
