Uveal melanoma is a type of cancer that appears in the uveal tract of the eye. Uveal tract has three main parts; choroid, ciliary body, and iris. Until now, the main cause of this cancer is unknown. However, excessive exposure to UV light is known to increase the risk of the disease. Uveal melanoma is also often found in people who have white skin and blue or green eyes. If not treated quickly, this cancer can spread to all body tissues and will be fatal.

To prevent this, researchers from the University of Bonn and University Hospital Magdeburg found one type of plant that can help in the treatment of uveal melanoma, which is coralberry. The plant, which is originating from Korea, is known to contain bacteria that can produce natural insecticides compound in its leaves. This compound, called FR900359 (FR), was found to inhibit the performance of protein molecules that help the process of cancer cells development.

FR compounds on coralberry were found to prevent the activation of Gq protein, a protein that plays a role in cell metabolism. The inactivity of Gq protein can potentially slow the development of uveal melanoma. The researchers further explained that the results of this study could be a bright spot in overcoming uveal melanoma. However, further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of FR compounds in humans.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Image Google Search

Source(s):

• Suvi, A., Xiaodong, F., Naveen, S., (2019). Direct targeting of Gaq and Ga11 oncoproteins in cancer cells. Science Signaling, DOI: 10.1126 / scisignal.aau5948.
• Medical News Today - Plant compound could fight eye cancer (2019). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324804.php, April 8, 2019.