Scientists discover natural molecule with powerful cancer-fighting properties

Scientists at UBC Okanagan have discovered how plants create mitraphylline, a rare natural substance with potential anti-cancer properties in a recent scientific breakthrough.

Mitraphylline is a spirooxindole alkaloid, a small family of plant-derived molecules and it has been studied for its potential anti-inflammatory effects.

Mitraphylline is one compound that was found in trace amounts in tropical trees like Mitragyna (kratom) and Uncaria (cat’s claw), both members of the coffee family.

These compounds feature distinctive twisted ring-like chemical structures and are valued for their biological impact including anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory activity.

Researchers did not particularly understand the precise molecular process plants use to form spirooxindoles.

In 2023, Dr.Thu-Thuy Dang and her team in the Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science identified the first plant enzyme capable of contorting a molecule into the unique triad.

Doctoral student Tuan-Anh Nguyen oversaw the next phase of research and uncovered two enzymes: one that determines the molecules' 3D arrangement and another that contributes to the last- minute revelations.

The natural compounds frequently occur only in tiny quantities, and they can be difficult and expensive to produce in the laboratory.

Upon recognizing the enzymes responsible for congregating and shaping mitraphylline, the researchers have established a framework for producing the related compounds more productively and long-lastingly.

The desired study demonstrated that the team has discovered the enzymes behind spirooxindole compounds, and this discovery has been remarkable.

Scientists were committed to focus on adapting molecular tools to create a wider range of therapeutic compounds for medicine and industry.