A study of nutraceuticals: Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract' s selective cytotoxicity to human oral carcinoma

Abstract

This paper studies the field of nutraceuticals, with a specific concentration on the selective cytotoxicity of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract to human oral carcinoma. In my research at Yeshiva University's Stem College for Women, under the supervision of Dr. Harvey Babich, Dr. Alyssa Schuck, and Dr. Jeffrey Weisburg, we studied the potential anticancer properties of grape seed extract. We found that for GSE, without standardization, although different extracts may show anticancer potentials, their modes of toxic action vary greatly - from toxicity due to their proanthocyanidins per se (as shown herein) to toxicity from their prooxidant nature arising from decomposition, autooxidation reactions. Coupled with this divergence of toxic mechanisms is that most GSE supplements are manufactured and consumed for their antioxidant nature. Yet, however, such plant-derived polyphenol nutraceuticals are potentially very important in regard to cancer therapies, especially as a commonality among most studies is that these extracts are selectively toxic to cancer cells, without an adverse effect on normal cells. As nutraceuticals become increasingly popular and widespread, it is imperative that doctors and nurses become educated in this field in order to understand their uses and effects. As a future nurse, I understand that patients view their health care providers as their advocates, and the trust these patients have in their caretakers must be upheld. Studying nutraceuticals and their effects has not been incorporated into formal education in most health professions, so I encourage all future and current medical professionals to understand the pros and cons of nutraceuticals so as to provide the best care for their patients.