Cassava Leaves as Breast Cancer Treatment: A Student Research Breakthrough
Students from Quezon City Science High School recently unveiled research exploring the potential use of cassava leaves as a treatment for breast cancer. Initially conducted to meet requirements for their Grade 9 and 10 science classes, this study presented promising findings on April 29 at the American Association for Cancer Research forum in Chicago.
The team discovered that methanolic crude extract from locally grown cassava leaves could be a “safe, cheap, and less toxic” alternative in fighting the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line. This research highlights cassava leaves as a natural option with potential for cancer therapy.
Understanding the Research and Its Significance
Cancer cell lines refer to cancer cells that continue dividing and growing under lab conditions, allowing scientists to study cancer biology and test treatments. The Philippine students found that the average absorbance of cassava leaf extract was comparable to established chemotherapy drugs like Vinblastine and 5-Fluorouracil.
One student researcher explained, “We discovered that it took 4.6 times more extract to kill normal cells than breast cancer cells. So, that means that although our extract is crude, meaning not really purified, it can somehow discriminate between what cells are healthy and what cells are not.”
Scientific Methods and Local Relevance
The study focused on the MCF-7 breast cancer cell line, differing from previous research that used cassava leaves against another cell line called SK-BR-3. The team applied various extraction methods and tested the extract both in vitro (lab conditions) and in silico (computer simulations).
One researcher shared, “Here in the Philippines, we know that cassava is native here because we are a tropical country. So, aside from looking for cancer treatment, gusto sana namin na natural or organic po siya and also available and accessible to the population if ma-develop po siya as a drug.”
Collaboration and Recognition
After gaining approval from medical experts early in their research, the students collaborated with a university biochemistry professor to complete their study. Though originally a school project, their work earned international recognition when presented at the AACR forum. Notably, only Filipino and Taiwanese researchers participated outside of the United States.
The study also became a finalist for the 2025 Genius Olympiad at Rochester Institute of Technology, where only two Filipino teams qualified to compete in New York this June.
Personal Motivation and Future Impact
The students dedicated their research to loved ones affected by breast cancer. They hope their findings will serve as a foundation for developing safer, more affordable cancer treatments.
“Hopefully, in the future, this study can be sort of a starting point that could pave the way for a better, safer, and cheaper cancer treatment,” one student expressed. Another added, “The study laid the groundwork for other studies to basically jump off of it and take the next step.”
Challenges and Support
Their adviser revealed that the study cost around P80,000, excluding expenses for international presentations, and relied heavily on parental support. Limited facilities posed challenges since the research was advanced for junior high students, which made university collaboration essential.
She emphasized the remarkable potential of Filipino students, stating, “Imagine the potential of Filipino students. Filipinos are really good. ‘Yun din yung narealize ko through time… if there are more institutions or even the private sector who could fund and support promising studies developed by students, imagine the progress that we could contribute to the science field in the country.”
Additionally, she pointed out that quality research is not exclusive to science high schools, as winners in regional science fairs come from various public schools.
For more inspiring stories, visit Filipinokami.com.