In recent decades, diets high in processed foods have contributed to a rise in non-communicable diseases. Dietary fiber, particularly from sources like passion fruit waste (peels and seeds), shows promise in improving gut health, immunity, and disease prevention. Pectin, a type of fiber found in passion fruit, interacts with immune receptors and may help fight colorectal cancer.
The findings of the thesis of Lucas de Freitas Pedrosa reveal that modified passion fruit pectin is more effective than native pectin at slowing cancer cell growth and activating protective proteins. It also influences immune responses, especially through certain pathways, upregulates tight-junction genes, and hinder colorectal cancer migration in vitro. The animal and computational modelling experiments further support these benefits. Mice with colitis-associated colon cancer fed modified passion fruit flour had fewer tumors, less inflammation, and better weight recovery compared to those given regular flour. Higher doses of the modified flour even restored colon length—a sign of reduced inflammation-and altered key immune markers. These findings suggest that repurposing food waste, like passion fruit byproducts, could offer a sustainable way to produce health-boosting fibers.
Not only might this help prevent chronic diseases, but it also aligns with global efforts to reduce waste. This study is part of basic research, giving foundation for further works to develop models studying the potential mechanisms highlighted here. Smarter use of natural resources and the implications of pectins in certain immunological or oncological cellular aspects are key-findings that can be incorporated in following steps.
