Ovarian cancer remains one of the most challenging cancers in women. Every year, thousands of lives are lost worldwide, while the main treatment – chemotherapy with cisplatin – often faces a major obstacle: drug resistance. Over time, cancer cells adapt and stop responding to the therapy.

A recent study has brought to light a natural ally: oleuropein, a phenolic compound found in olive oil.

What the research showed
Scientists examined the effects of oleuropein on two ovarian cancer cell lines (A2780S and A2780/CP). The results were striking:

-Oleuropein triggered apoptosis – the programmed “self-destruction” of cancer cells.
-It increased the expression of genes that promote apoptosis (such as P53 and P21).
-It reduced the activity of genes that help cancer cells survive (such as Bcl-2 and Mcl1).
-It positively influenced key miRNAs, small molecules that regulate cell behavior:
-Decreased miR-21 (associated with drug resistance).
-Increased miR-34a, miR-125b, and miR-16 (known for their tumor-suppressing effects).

Most importantly, when oleuropein was combined with cisplatin, the cancer cells became much more sensitive to treatment, significantly reducing their resistance.


What this means for us
This study suggests that a natural compound from olive oil may play a key role not only in cancer prevention but also in therapy, as a complementary anticancer agent. Although further studies in animals and clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings, the prospects are highly promising.

Once again, oleuropein reminds us that olive oil is not just food – it is a true treasure of nature, with science continually uncovering new therapeutic potentials.


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