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European Journal of Nutrition
Published in: European Journal of Nutrition 2/2008

01-05-2008

Mechanisms of combined action of different chemopreventive dietary compounds

A review

Authors: Theo M. de Kok, Simone G. van Breda, Margaret M. Manson

Published in: European Journal of Nutrition | Special Issue 2/2008

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Abstract

Consumption of fruits and vegetables has generally been associated with a decrease in cancer incidence and cardiovascular disease. Over the years, numerous bioactive compounds have been identified that contribute to these beneficial health effects. More recently, evidence is emerging that specific combinations of phytochemicals may be far more effective in protecting against cancer than isolated compounds. Combinatorial effects have been observed where any one of the single agents is inactive. Apart from interactions among dietary micronutrients, drug–phytochemical interactions have also been observed, indicating possibilities for improved cancer therapeutic strategies. Our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying such synergistic effects is still limited, but it appears that different combinations of complementary modes of actions are involved. In this review, we discuss the molecular mechanisms that are likely to be involved in cancer chemoprevention and summarize the most important findings of those studies that report synergistic chemopreventive effects of dietary compounds.
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Metadata
Title
Mechanisms of combined action of different chemopreventive dietary compounds
A review
Authors
Theo M. de Kok
Simone G. van Breda
Margaret M. Manson
Publication date
01-05-2008
Publisher
D. Steinkopff-Verlag
Published in
European Journal of Nutrition / Issue Special Issue 2/2008
Print ISSN: 1436-6207
Electronic ISSN: 1436-6215
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-008-2006-y

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