Medical Dictionary
Definitions of key oncology and immunology terms used in Fucoidan research.
Apoptosis
Programmed cell death. A process where cells self-destruct when they are damaged or no longer needed. Fucoidan is often studied via PubMed for its ability to induce apoptosis in cancer cells.
Angiogenesis
The formation of new blood vessels. Tumors rely on angiogenesis to grow. Research suggests Fucoidan may inhibit VEGF, a protein that stimulates this process, effectively starving tumors.
NK Cells (Natural Killer Cells)
A type of white blood cell critical to the innate immune system. They play a major role in the host-rejection of both tumors and virally infected cells by responding to interferon signals.
Cytokine
Small signaling proteins crucial in controlling the growth and activity of other immune system cells and blood cells. Fucoidan help balance cytokine expression.
Macrophage
Specialized cells involved in the detection, phagocytosis and destruction of bacteria and other harmful organisms. AHCC® synergy significantly enhances macrophage and dendritic cell response.
Metastasis
The spread of cancer cells from the primary site where they first formed to another part of the body via the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
VEGF
Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor. A signaling protein that promotes the growth of new blood vessels. Most Fucoidan studies focus on the suppression of VEGF to limit tumor expansion.