Natural pigments from plant cells.

The number of cancer-fighting chemicals found in nature is enormous. Scientists at the University of Illinois (Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences, 1021 Plant Sciences Laboratory, MC-634, 1201 S. Dorner Dr., Urbana, IL 61801) are developing a system to extract these compounds from plant cells in a laboratory environment. Specifically, they are cultivating plant cells in bioreactors to produce beneficial anti-tumor compounds and natural colorants. They have already isolated phytochemicals known to inhibit the early development of tumors and a whole set of compounds that inhibit growth of established tumors. Investigators have also isolated natural pigments that might replace synthetic colorants that are carcinogenic. Beyond isolating natural compounds with medicinal properties, the scientists are studying their efficacy and purifying them to find out exactly why they are beneficial. The long-term potential of their effort could be a new family of health foods and pharmaceutical products.

The approach being used represents a new way of making these compounds. In the lab, the materials can be produced all year long instead of just during a plant's growing season. Technicians would have complete control of the physical and chemical environment. Systems are under development that optimize the extraction process by using machine vision technology. Computers analyze video images to automate the process, quantify the results and optimize the entire technique. Further information. Mary Ann Lila Smith; phone: [phone]; fax: [phone]; email: [e-mail].