IRRI Scientists Discover Rice Varieties with Antioxidant and Anti-Cancer Properties

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

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• 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 μg/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.

BL