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A rare cancer-fighting plant compound has been decoded

Latest Science News -- ScienceDaily·May 13, 2026

Scientists at UBC Okanagan have decoded the production of mitraphylline, a rare natural compound with anti-cancer potential. They identified two enzymes that work together to build the molecule's unique structure, solving a long-standing mystery. Mitraphylline is found in small amounts in tropical plants like kratom and cat's claw, and this discovery could enable sustainable production in the future. The breakthrough may lead to increased availability of the compound for further research and potential cancer treatments.

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