Researchers are turning their attention to an ingredient in a popular libation as a potential weapon against prostate cancer. Hops, a grain that is an integral component in the production of beer, has been found to contain a natural compound called xanthohumol, which is able to block the binding of testosterone to cells. Overexposure to testosterone has been implicated as the basis for many types of tumors, including prostate cancer.

Xanthohumol is a flavonoid, which are naturally occurring compounds found in many plants, vegetables, and spices that are believed to have numerous health benefits. Previous studies have demonstrated that xanthohumol inhibits estrogen by impeding its binding to cell receptors, thus making it a candidate for the prevention of breast cancer, as well.

Like estrogen, testosterone binds to specific cell receptors and can influence cell growth and proliferation. In certain instances, they can signal overproduction, whereby cells begin to grow uncontrollably. When this happens, the cells can develop into cancerous tissue. Because xanthohumol acts on the first stage of this process, it may be a good candidate for cancer therapy and prevention.

To test their hypothesis, scientists used testosterone to stimulate hormone-dependent prostate cancer cells. This resulted in a massive secretion of prostate specific antigen, or PSA. Levels of PSA in the body are actually used as a screening mechanism for prostate cancer in men. After exposure to testosterone, the cells were then treated with xanthohumol. What they observed was that xanthohumol was able to bind to the receptor and was effective in reducing the expression of PSA.

The next step will be to do further testing of xanthohumol in animal models. Initial results have been promising, with some indication that the flavonoid does affect the influence of testosterone on cells.

Flavonoids are antioxidant compounds that are found throughout nature. They are believed to protect people from heart disease and cancer by removing free radicals that result from metabolism. Flavonoids are present in red wine, chocolate, and tea, as well as fresh fruits and vegetables.

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer found in men next to skin cancer, and the second leading cause of cancer death in men after lung cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, last year in the United States, there were over 190,000 new cases of prostate cancer and over 27,000 deaths. It is believed that over a lifetime, 1 in 6 men will contract prostate cancer, though cancer prostate cancer rates are going down. In fact, there are over 2 million survivors who are alive today. In addition to more effective treatments, chances of survival increase with early detection.

If you have question or concerns about prostate cancer, speak with your physician, or visit the website of the American Cancer Society for more information.