Discovered potential of a common sweetener in combating aggressive forms of cancer, according to a recent study
In a groundbreaking development, researchers at Hiroshima University have discovered that fermented stevia leaf extract could potentially be a game-changer in the fight against pancreatic cancer.
The study, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in mid-2025, investigates the anti-cancer properties of stevia leaf extract when fermented with a specific strain of bacteria. The bacterial strain, isolated from banana leaves, is a lactic acid bacteria (LAB).
The fermentation process transforms the extract, enhancing its antioxidant activity and cytotoxicity specifically toward pancreatic cancer cells while sparing healthy kidney cells. This microbial biotransformation creates bioactive metabolites, including a potent compound called chlorogenic acid methyl ester (CAME), which contributes to the extract's cancer-killing properties.
Dr. Kristen Arnold, a surgical oncologist and pancreatic cancer specialist, expressed encouragement regarding the study. However, she emphasized that these results are based on in vitro preclinical models, and further research, including human clinical trials, is needed to confirm efficacy and safety.
Pancreatic cancer currently has a very low five-year survival rate (<10%), highlighting the urgent need for novel treatments. An expert oncologist emphasized the significance of deriving anti-cancer agents from natural products like stevia.
However, it's important to approach this development with caution. Paul E. Oberstein, M.D., a medical oncologist, shares his thoughts on the study, noting that the actual stevia plant does not seem to have any benefit for stopping cancer. Similarly, the stevia used as a beverage sweetener does not show any benefit in its current form.
Angelica Stabile, a lifestyle reporter for our website Digital, reached out to the study authors for comment. Michelle Patidar, a Chicago-based health nutrition coach, also discusses the potential benefits of matcha for cancer prevention, but these findings are unrelated to the stevia study.
As the clinical trials determine how patients are treated on a day-to-day basis, it's uncertain whether this new development will lead to immediate changes in treatment plans. However, the potential of fermented stevia extract as a novel probiotic-based approach to anticancer therapy is undeniably exciting in the discovery of new treatments for pancreatic cancer.
[1] International Journal of Molecular Sciences [2] Nature [4] Science Direct
The International Journal of Molecular Sciences published a study revealing that fermented stevia leaf extract, when paired with a specific bacteria strain, could potentially offer a significant advancement in health-and-wellness by targeting medical-conditions like pancreatic cancer. This development might contribute to the science of cancer treatment, especially when it comes to health-and-wellness.
