Ginger vs. Cancer: Natural compound targets tumor metabolism

Scientists in Japan have discovered that a natural compound found in a type of ginger called kencur can throw cancer cells into disarray by disrupting how they generate energy. While healthy cells use oxygen to make energy efficiently, cancer cells often rely on a backup method. This ginger-derived molecule doesn t attack that method directly it shuts down the cells' fat-making machinery instead, which surprisingly causes the cells to ramp up their backup system even more. The finding opens new doors in the fight against cancer, showing how natural substances might help target cancer s hidden energy tricks.

Jun 11, 2025 - 12:16
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Ginger vs. Cancer: Natural compound targets tumor metabolism
Scientists in Japan have discovered that a natural compound found in a type of ginger called kencur can throw cancer cells into disarray by disrupting how they generate energy. While healthy cells use oxygen to make energy efficiently, cancer cells often rely on a backup method. This ginger-derived molecule doesn t attack that method directly it shuts down the cells' fat-making machinery instead, which surprisingly causes the cells to ramp up their backup system even more. The finding opens new doors in the fight against cancer, showing how natural substances might help target cancer s hidden energy tricks.