Proteins in milk, meat, and other foods suppress gut tumors

Researchers at the RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS) in Japan have uncovered that food antigens, such as milk proteins, play a role in preventing tumor growth in the small intestine. Their study, published in *Frontiers in Immunology* on September 18, showed that these antigens activate the intestinal immune system, which helps stop the development of new tumors. While food antigens are often linked to allergic reactions, the study highlights their potential benefits.

Previous research had demonstrated that food antigens activate immune cells in the small intestines. In this study, they explored whether these antigens could also suppress tumors. Using mice with a mutation similar to familial adenomatous polyposis in humans, they found that mice fed a normal diet had fewer tumors in the small intestines compared to those on an antigen-free diet.

This research suggests that elemental diets, which exclude proteins and are used for certain gastrointestinal conditions, may need careful consideration due to their potential risks.