Pesticide Inhibits Mesothelioma Cell Growth in Lab Animals
Researchers in Switzerland say a pesticide designed to make grapes and kiwifruit bigger can also slow mesothelioma cell growth. The EPA approved forchlorfenuron (FCF) in 2004. Farmers use it to help grapes and kiwifruit grow bigger, break less easily, and last longer in cold storage. But new research at the University of Fribourg suggests that the chemical has the opposite effect on mesothelioma cell growth. Mesothelioma cells exposed to FCF are less likely to live and spread. The researchers say this could be a promising step toward a new kind of mesothelioma treatment. Forchlorfenuron and Mesothelioma Cell Growth The EPA classifies FCF as a plant growth regulator. According to the EPA fact sheet, FCF is a cytokinin which “improves fruit…