How Plants Twist Molecules with Enzymes to Make Anti-Cancer Compounds

As we know, plants make thousands of natural compounds every day — for color, smell, protection, and even healing. But now scientists have found something very special.
They discovered how plants twist molecules using enzymes to make complex compounds that have anti-cancer properties.

This study was published in Science journal in October 2025 and it reveals how nature creates powerful medicines naturally, without any human help.

What Are Enzymes and How Do They Work?

Before going further, let’s recall the basic point.
Enzymes are special proteins that help in chemical reactions. They speed up reactions that would otherwise take a very long time.

In humans, enzymes help in digestion, energy, and breathing.
In plants, enzymes help to make oils, colors, scents, and medicinal compounds.

Means, without enzymes, no plant can make such powerful natural chemicals.

How Plants Use Enzymes to Make Anti-Cancer Molecules

In this new research, scientists found that plants use two main enzymes to twist and connect simple molecules into complex 3D shapes called spirocyclic molecules.

A spirocyclic molecule has two rings connected at one atom.
This twisted, spiral shape makes it very strong and active.
Because of this unique shape, such molecules can target cancer cells and stop their growth.

So, the twisting action done by enzymes gives these compounds their medicinal power.

The Role of Spirocyclic Molecules

The spiro-shaped structure is not just beautiful — it is also functional.
It helps the molecule fit perfectly into the biological target, like a key fits into a lock.

This is why many anti-cancer drugs in modern medicine are designed to copy this same structure.
Now, scientists have learned how plants do it naturally.

Example: Mitraphylline – A Natural Anti-Cancer Compound

One of the best examples from this study is mitraphylline.
It is found in a tropical plant called Uncaria tomentosa (also known as Cat’s Claw).

Mitraphylline has shown anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties.
The study found that two enzymes in the plant help build this compound by joining and twisting simple molecules into the final spiral structure.

This discovery shows how smart nature is — it already designed complex medicines millions of years before humans even discovered chemistry.

Why This Discovery Matters

This research is very important for science and medicine. Let’s understand why:

1. Eco-friendly drug making: The enzymes work in a natural way, so they reduce the need for harsh lab chemicals.
2. Lower cost: If we can copy this process, cancer drugs can be made faster and cheaper.
3. Green chemistry: It promotes sustainable and environment-safe methods for making medicines.
4. Biotech innovation: Scientists can now use these enzymes in labs to make new types of anti-cancer drugs.

So, this discovery connects plant biology, chemistry, and biotechnology in one beautiful way.

Future Possibilities

In the future, scientists can:

• Copy these enzymes using biotechnology.
• Grow plants or microbes that produce more anti-cancer compounds.
• Create new versions of these molecules for stronger medicines.