A natural compound extracted from purple sweet potatoes may offer a new way to fight colorectal cancer, according to a recent study. The compound, called Cya-Gly-Fer (CGF), showed strong anti-tumor effects in both laboratory and animal models, significantly slowing tumor growth and reducing liver metastasis, a major cause of death in colorectal cancer patients.
Researchers found that CGF works by disrupting cancer cell metabolism and triggering oxidative stress. It blocks key transport proteins, leading to energy buildup inside cells, which damages mitochondria and causes a surge in reactive oxygen species. This chain reaction shuts down critical cancer growth pathways, reduces the activity of the oncogene c-MYC, and prevents cancer cells from spreading.
Importantly, the compound showed no significant toxicity in major organs and demonstrated good stability in the body. Scientists say CGF could represent a promising, low-toxicity alternative to conventional chemotherapy, with potential for development into a next-generation, natural anti-cancer therapy.