Study Explores Whether Grapes May Relieve Radiation Fibrosis

British cancer experts have begun a small study exploring whether grapes may offer relief for a painful condition affecting some breast cancer patients receiving high-dose radiotherapy.

The research by the Institute of Cancer Research is looking at the healing properties of grape seed on radiation fibrosis, a condition in which breast tissue can becomes hard and tender that can "have a major impact on day-to-day life", according to Cancer Research UK.

The trial will involve 72 patients who will undergo magnetic resonance imaging scans and provide blood, urine and breast tissue samples at The Royal Marsden Hospital in London.

Professor John Yarnold, the principal researcher, said grape seeds contain a mixture of compounds known as flavonoids. These in turn have antioxidant properties, which, he said, may be superior to known antioxidants, such as vitamin E or C.

"There have already been promising small-scale trials with antioxidants, but I believe grape seed extract has interesting potential," said Yarnold.

Sir Paul Nurse, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said, 'We hope this trial will eventually lead to a treatment for patients who previously had no respite from the symptoms of radiation fibrosis," said Sir Paul Nurse, chief executive of Cancer Research UK which is funding the study.

Other sources: Cancer Research UK