Antinutrient Phytic acid: Can be proved to be a Boon for Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

Phytic acid also known as inositol hexa-phosphate, is a simple ringed bioactive sugar molecule with six phosphate groups attached to each carbon. Cereals, pulses, and oil seeds contain considerable amounts of Phytic acid. Phytic acid is known as a potent anti-nutrient that binds with the minerals and forms chelates thus leading to mineral deficiency diseases if administered in excess dosage. The phytase (enzyme) containing foods can reverse the reaction and increase the bioavailability of minerals. In-spite of having anti-nutritional properties, phytic acid can be a boon for colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer, the third most often malignant carcinoma, progresses sporadically in the setting of hereditary cancer syndromes, or on the basis of inflammatory bowel disease. Nutrients can directly affect the fundamental cellular processes and is considered as the most important risk factors in colorectal cancer. Colorectal Cancer occurs with the formation of polyps. Various mechanisms have been proposed for Phytic Acid as anti-tumorigenic abilities that are antioxidant properties, gene alteration, increase natural killer activity and cell cycle inhibition. Different studies suggest phytic acid can suppress tumour growth and prevent colorectal cancer. Phytic acid supplementation with its potential anti-inflammatory, antioxidant activity, and metal chelation capacity are of great deal of interest to improve the anticarcinogenic activity of chemotherapeutic drugs in combination or alone. Further studies are needed to establish the safe dosage of phytic acid in daily diet as well as for preventing colorectal cancer.