Cancer Chemopreventive Potential of Seed Proteins and Peptides

Cancer has become as one of the most challenged diseases nowadays. Evidence has estimated that about 35% of cancers can be prevented by correct diet, physical activity, and maintenance of appropriate weight. Thus, changes in lifestyle and dietetic habits have been recommended for cancer prevention. In addition, natural or synthetic substances are used (as chemopreventive agents) for preventing, retarding, or blocking the development of cancer. Among natural compounds, those present in foods have been found to reduce cancer risk and sensitize tumor cells in anticancer therapies. In cereals, legumes, and other seeds, different bioactive compounds have demonstrated to exert an important beneficial impact on human health, protecting against various types of cancer. Among them, protein and peptides have become one of the most studied. This chapter summarizes the recent evidence on the chemopreventive properties of seed proteins, hydrolysates, and peptides, focusing on their food sources and their mechanism of action.