Prostate Tumors Shrunk By Lycopene, Vitamin E Combo

A combination of lycopene and vitamin E suppressed the growth of prostate cancer in mice, but had no effect when used independently, say Dutch researchers. The role of tomato and its extracts to protect against prostate cancer has been reported in several epidemiological studies, which lycopene supplement producers have been quick to promote. The new research, led by Professor Wytske van Weerden from Erasmus MC in Rotterdam, casts doubt on the effectiveness of lycopene by itself, and suggests a synergetic effect with vitamin E, another nutrient naturally found in tomatoes. May, Journal of Nutrition (Vol. 136, pp. 1287-1293).