Pineapple, a juicy fruit may contain cancer-fighting properties and other components which stimulate the immune system to target and kill cancer cells, says BBC health website. Two molecules isolated from an extract of crushed pineapple stems have shown promise in fighting cancer growth.
One molecule called CCS blocks a protein called Ras, which is defective in approximately 30 percent of all cancers.
The other called CCZ, stimulates the body's own immune system to target and kill cancer cells.
It is hoped the research, carried out by Queensland Institute of Medical Research, could lead to new anti-cancer drugs.
The extract studied by the scientists, bromeliad, is a rich source of enzymes and is widely used as a meat tenderiser, to clarify beer and tan leather hides.