Gossypol

Gossypol is a natural phenol derived from the cotton plant (Gossypium). It has been used in traditional medicine and has been studied for its potential use in cancer treatment.

History

Gossypol was first isolated from cottonseed oil in 1899 by a German chemist. It was initially used as a male contraceptive in China in the 1970s.

Chemical Structure

Gossypol is a binaphthyl dialdehyde. It is a yellow pigment and is found in the roots, stems, seeds, and flower buds of the cotton plant.

Medical Uses

Gossypol has been studied for its potential use in cancer treatment. It has been found to have anti-cancer properties, particularly against ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, and melanoma. It works by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and inducing apoptosis, or programmed cell death.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of gossypol include fatigue, nausea, and diarrhea. In rare cases, it can cause liver damage or an allergic reaction.

Research

Research into the use of gossypol as a cancer treatment is ongoing. Some studies have found that it may be effective in treating certain types of cancer, but more research is needed to confirm these findings and to determine the best dosage and method of administration.

See Also

• Cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Melanoma

References

Gossypol Resources
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