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Cassava tubers are rich in carbohydrates, principally starch, and are a major source of energy. With the exception of sugar cane, cassava is the highest source of carbohydrates. Cassava tubers are, however, deficient in protein, fat, and some minerals and vitamins. The nutritional value is less than that of cereals, legumes and some other roots such as yam.
Medical Uses
It has been reported that cassava may have anti-cancer properties. Genes isolated from the plant have already been used to eradicate brain tumours in laboratory rats.
The killer-suicide system linamarase/linamarin (lis/lin) uses the plant gene linamarase to convert the cyanogenic glucoside substrate, linamarin, into glucose and cyanide, which can diffuse across membranes. This mechanism does not preferentially kill toxic metabolite producer cells compared with bystander cells, thus allowing production of sufficient cyanide to cause tumor regression. |
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