Research

        New hope: Lab tests show that vitamin E interferes with two proteins that play a central role in the development of prostate cancer, say researchers at the University of Rochester.

        Vitamin E interferes with the ability of prostate cancer cells to make prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and the androgen receptor.

        Vitamin E is an antioxidant that destroys free radicals, and some scientists speculate its antioxidant properties might help prevent prostate cancer.

        The study, led by Shuyuan Yeh, assistant professor in the departments of urology and pathology, showed that PSA levels drop as much as 80 to 90 percent in prostate cancer cells exposed to vitamin E. Researchers also saw a 25 to 50 percent decrease in the number of cancer cells.

        The study also found that vitamin E blocks the assembly of the androgen receptor, a protein that helps prostate cells — including cancer cells — develop.

        The study helps identify new leads for targeting prostate cancer. Current treatments either stop the production of testosterone or prevent testosterone from binding to the androgen receptor. The study suggests it's possible to target the receptor itself.

        Researchers stopped short of endorsing vitamin E as a preventive measure. Dr. Yeh said researchers found vitamin E succinate, or alpha-tocopheryl succinate, was most effective in the laboratory.

Calendar

        Presentation: Hoxworth Blood Center and the Wellness Community will present a question and answer session on the importance of blood donations for cancer patients at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Wellness Community, 4918 Cooper Road in Blue Ash. Registration: 791-4060.

        Seminar: The FLOW Chapter of Cincinnati presents ""Transforming Your Relationship to Money,” a presentation by Mackey Miriam NcNeill, at 6 p.m. Monday at the Embassy Suites Rivercenter in Covington. Cost: $45 in advance/$55 at the door for members; $55 in advance/$65 at the door for non-members. Information: 752-9288 or www.flownational.com.

        Workshop: The Greater Cincinnati Chapter of the Alzheimer's Association and Senior Services of Northern Kentucky will present “When the Diagnosis Is Alzheimer's or a Related Disorder,” a workshop for caregivers, from 9 to 1 on Aug. 3 and Aug. 10 at the Boone County Senior Center in Florence. The program is free, but registration is required. Information: Marlene, 721-4284.

Shelf help

        Inward: Meditation: Path to the Deepest Self (DK Publishing; $14.95) by Michal Levin is a “how-to” guide focusing on energy and the chakras, meditation and guided journeys.

Resource

        Guide: The National Women's Health Resource Center is offering a free 34-page booklet, “Women and Health: A Guide to Effective Communication with Your Healthcare Professional.” To order, call (877) 986-9472 or visit www.healthywomen.org.

        Contact Peggy O'Farrell by phone: 768-8510; fax: 768-8330; e-mail: pofarrell@enquirer.com.

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