Antiproliferative and apoptotic effects of selective phenolic acids on T47D human breast cancer cells: potential mechanisms of action Marilena Kampa, Vassilia-Ismini Alexaki, George Notas, Artemissia-Phoebe Nifli, Anastassia Nistikaki, Anastassia Hatzoglou, Efstathia Bakeogeorgou, Elean Kouimtzoglou, George Blekas, Dimitrios Boskou, Achille Gravanis and Elias Castanas Corresponding author: Elias Castanas (castanas@med.uoc.gr) Introduction: The oncoprotective role of food-derived polyphenol antioxidants has been described but the implicated mechanisms are not yet clear. In addition to polyphenols, phenolic acids, found at high concentrations in a number of plants, possess antioxidant action. The main phenolic acids found in foods are derivatives of 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and 4- hydroxycinnamic acid. Conclusions: Phenolic acids exert a direct antiproliferative action, evident at low concentrations, comparable with those found in biological fluids after ingestion of foods rich in phenolic acids. Furthermore, the direct interaction with the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, the nitric oxide synthase inhibition and their pro-apoptotic effect provide some insights into their biological mode of action. Breast Cancer Res,2004, 6:R63-R74 Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.