Clinoptilolite as a Gastrointestinal Protective Agent: Mechanisms and Potential in Cancer Prevention

Background: Cancer remains a major global health threat, with particularly concerning mortality projections in Middle Eastern countries. As advanced-stage treatments show limited efficacy, prevention through modifiable risk factors becomes crucial. Methods: The present study reviews the scientific literature on clinoptilolite’s physicochemical characteristics and biological mechanisms, based on a search of databases up to ۲۰۲۵. Results: This review evaluates clinoptilolite, a natural zeolite, as a promising chemopreventive agent targeting gastrointestinal health. Our study reveals four key mechanisms: (۱) strengthening intestinal barrier function and optimizing microbiota composition, (۲) regulating inflammatory pathways through immunomodulation, (۳) binding and neutralizing dietary/environmental carcinogens, and (۴) selectively inhibiting oncogenic signaling pathways like PI۳K/Akt. While demonstrating significant potential for preventing inflammation-driven gastrointestinal cancers, we highlight critical dose-dependent effects and metabolic considerations that require careful evaluation in therapeutic applications. The compound's multifaceted action profile, combined with its natural origin and relatively low toxicity, suggests substantial promise for cancer prevention strategies. However, further research is needed to establish optimal dosing protocols and fully understand long-term implications. Conclusion: These findings support clinoptilolite's potential as part of integrative approaches against cancers, particularly where chronic inflammation and environmental carcinogen exposure contribute to carcinogenesis.

کلیدواژه ها:

Cancer prevention ، Clinoptilolite ، Gastrointestinal system ، Zeolite