Squ Squalene
Description: <b>Squalene</b>, a natural triterpene found in olive oil, shark liver oil, and other sources, has been investigated for its potential anticancer effects. Although squalene is best known as an intermediate in cholesterol biosynthesis, its antioxidant and membrane‐protective properties may contribute to anticancer activity through several mechanisms and pathways.<br>
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Antioxidant Activity and Lipid Protection<br>
-Squalene can quench free radicals and protect cell membranes from lipid peroxidation. This antioxidant property may reduce DNA damage and mutagenesis that contribute to cancer initiation.<br>
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Modulation of the Mevalonate Pathway<br>
-Squalene is a precursor in the cholesterol biosynthesis pathway (the mevalonate pathway). Alterations in this pathway are implicated in cancer cell proliferation and survival. By influencing this pathway, squalene might indirectly affect the synthesis of isoprenoids, which are involved in the post-translational modification of proteins (e.g., RAS, RHO), critical for cell growth and differentiation.<br>