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Ferreting out beta-carotene's toxicity
An animal study suggests that high doses of beta-carotene break down to products that can promote cancer growth.
References:
Wang, X.-D., et al. 1999. Retinoid signaling and activator protein-1 expression in ferrets given b-carotene supplements and exposed to tobacco smoke. Journal of the National Cancer Institute 91(Jan. 6):60.
Further Readings:
Adler, T. 1994. Beta-carotene may lower vitamin E stores. Science News 145(May 14):310.
Raloff, J. 1996. How antioxidants may fight cancer. Science News 149(March 23):182.
Seachrist, L. 1996. Beta carotene proves 'no magic bullet.' Science News 149(Jan.27):55.
Sources:
Xiang-Dong Wang
U.S.D.A. Human Nutrition Research Center on Aging
Tufts University
711 Washington Street
Boston, MA 02111
From Science News, Vol. 155, No. 8, February 20, 1999, p. 127. Copyright © 1999, Science Service.
