Unlocking the Power of Fisetin: A Natural Ally in Cancer Prevention & Treatment

Discover the Potential of Fisetin in Enhancing Cancer Prevention and Treatments

Written by Keith Bishop, Clinical Nutritionist, Cancer Coach, and Retired Pharmacist

Imagine a simple, delicious addition to your diet that could significantly lower your risk of developing cancer. Sounds too good to be true? Enter fisetin, a natural flavonoid in your favorite fruits and vegetables. Recent research has highlighted its powerful anticancer properties, making it a promising candidate in the fight against one of the most prevalent cancers. Ready to discover how this humble compound can make a difference in your health journey? Let's dive into the fascinating world of fisetin and uncover its secrets.

Fisetin, a natural flavonoid in various fruits and vegetables, has garnered significant attention for its potential anticancer properties. This blog post delves into fisetin's anticancer benefits, its impact on cancer, food sources, and potential concerns, including drug interactions.

Anticancer Benefits of Fisetin

Fisetin exhibits several biological activities that contribute to its anticancer properties. Studies have shown that fisetin can suppress cell growth, induce apoptosis (programmed cell death), reduce angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), protect against oxidative stress, and inhibit cell migration. These properties make fisetin a promising candidate for anticancer therapy.

Fisetin’s Impact on Cancer

Fisetin's anticancer effects are attributed to its ability to modulate various cell signaling pathways, including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and Nrf2/HO-1. Fisetin stimulates the Sirtuin (SIRT1) pathway, enhancing cellular autophagy (removing damaged cells). By targeting these pathways, fisetin can improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy and potentially serve as an adjuvant therapy.

Fisetin has been studied for its potential anticancer effects on various types of cancer. Here's a list of cancers that have been researched concerning fisetin:

• Breast Cancer
• Colorectal Cancer
• Melanoma
• Prostate Cancer
• Pancreatic Cancer
• Lung Cancer
• Ovarian Cancer
• Leukemia
• Bladder Cancer
• Gastric Cancer

At the time of publication, these were the only cancers studied. Other cancers may be impacted similarly. I couldn't find any medical journal references indicating that fisetin did not positively impact cancer. Most studies highlight its potential anticancer properties and beneficial effects.

Food Sources of Fisetin

Fisetin is naturally present in a variety of fruits and vegetables. Some of the top food sources rich in fisetin include:

• Strawberries: The highest concentration of fisetin, providing 160 micrograms per gram.
• Apples: Contain 26.9 micrograms per gram of fisetin.
• Persimmons: Offer 10.6 micrograms per gram.
• Grapes: Provide 3.9 micrograms per gram.
• Onions: Contain 4.8 micrograms per gram.
• Kiwis: Provide 2.0 micrograms per gram.

Including these foods in your daily diet can help you reap the benefits of fisetin.

My Preferred Supplement Source of Fisetin

ONCO-ADJUNCT™ Pathway 4™ is a nutritional supplement that combines Beta Glucans with three LPS™ bioactive polyphenols using brown rice as the scaffold. LPS™ technology delivers molecular polyphenols such as Fisetin, EGCG, and Resveratrol to your body by using protein as the carrier. Without LPS™ technology they are not assimilated because they are not well absorbed from the gut.

Potential Fisetin Concerns and Drug Interactions

While fisetin shows promise as an anticancer agent, it is essential to be aware of potential concerns and drug interactions. Due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, fisetin may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and antiplatelet drugs. It is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any fisetin supplements, especially if you are on medication.

Potential Fisetin Interactions with Cancer Chemotherapy Treatments

Fisetin has been shown to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs. Studies indicate that fisetin can alter the cell cycle, induce apoptosis (programmed cell death), and inhibit cancer cell proliferation. This makes it a valuable adjuvant in cancer therapy, potentially improving the outcomes of chemotherapy treatments.

Potential Fisetin Interactions with Cancer Immunotherapy Treatments

Fisetin has shown potential in enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapy. Studies suggest that fisetin can modulate immune responses, promoting the activation of immune cells and enhancing their ability to target and destroy cancer cells. This makes fisetin a promising adjuvant for immunotherapy treatments.

Potential Fisetin Impact on Cancer Radiation Treatments

Fisetin has shown promise in enhancing the effectiveness of radiation therapy. Studies indicate that fisetin can radiosensitize cancer cells, making them more susceptible to radiation-induced damage. Specifically, fisetin induces DNA double-strand breaks and interferes with the repair of radiation-induced damage, leading to increased cancer cell death. This effect has been observed in various cancer types, including triple-negative breast cancer and liver cancer.

Fisetin and Cancer Conclusion

Fisetin, a naturally occurring flavonoid, holds significant potential as an anticancer agent. Its ability to modulate various cell signaling pathways and enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy makes it a promising candidate for cancer prevention and treatment. By incorporating fisetin-rich foods into your diet, you can harness its health benefits while being mindful of potential drug interactions.

*Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.

Reference Sources

Zhou, C., Huang, Y., Nie, S. et al. Biological effects and mechanisms of fisetin in cancer: a promising anti-cancer agent. Eur J Med Res 28, 297 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40001-023-01271-8

Imran M, Saeed F, Gilani SA, et al. Fisetin: An anticancer perspective. Food Sci Nutr. 2020;9(1):3-16. Published 2020 Nov 25. doi:10.1002/fsn3.1872 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/fsn3.1872

Mayo Clinic. Fisetin in Treating Patients With Colorectal Cancer That Can Be Removed by Surgery. Mayo Clinic Research. December 7, 2021. Accessed December 9, 2024. https://www.mayo.edu/research/clinical-trials/cls-20438802

Yen JH, Wu PS, Chen SF, Wu MJ. Fisetin Protects PC12 Cells from Tunicamycin-Mediated Cell Death via Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging and Modulation of Nrf2-Driven Gene Expression, SIRT1 and MAPK Signaling in PC12 Cells. Int J Mol Sci. 2017;18(4):852. Published 2017 Apr 17. doi:10.3390/ijms18040852 https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/18/4/852

Zehra, K., Banu, A., Can, E. et al. Fisetin and/or capecitabine causes changes in apoptosis pathways in capecitabine-resistant colorectal cancer cell lines. Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's Arch Pharmacol 397, 7913–7926 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00210-024-03145-0

Kubina R, Krzykawski K, Kabała-Dzik A, Wojtyczka RD, Chodurek E, Dziedzic A. Fisetin, a Potent Anticancer Flavonol Exhibiting Cytotoxic Activity against Neoplastic Malignant Cells and Cancerous Conditions: A Scoping, Comprehensive Review. Nutrients. 2022; 14(13):2604. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14132604

Khozooei, S., Lettau, K., Barletta, F. et al. Fisetin induces DNA double-strand break and interferes with the repair of radiation-induced damage to radiosensitize triple negative breast cancer cells. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 41, 256 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1186/s13046-022-02442-x

Kim TW. Fisetin, an Anti-Inflammatory Agent, Overcomes Radioresistance by Activating the PERK-ATF4-CHOP Axis in Liver Cancer. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2023; 24(10):9076. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms24109076