Description
Phytic acid is a saturated cyclic acid used to store phosphorus in plants; it is non-digestible in humans but is occasionally used in cattle feed. Phytic acid exhibits anticancer, anti-osteoporotic, anti-ulcerative, and anti-inflammatory activities. In colorectal adenocarcinoma cells, phytic acid increases expression of caspase 3, caspase 8, and Bax, decreases expression of Bcl-xl, and induces apoptosis. In clinical settings, high levels of this compound are associated with increases in bone mineral density. Additionally, phytic acid decreases edema and protects against NSAID-induced ulcer formation in animal models.
