Studies have shown that terpenoids contained in abies sibirica activate genes responsible for regeneration of tissues and  fighting tumors.
Scientists from the V.A. Engelhardt Institute of Molecular Biology and the Moscow Physics and Technology Institute have studied the effect of terpenoids (i.e. oxygen-containing organic compounds) in Siberian fir on the aging and cancer cell lines at the gene level, the MPhTI press service reports.
The terpenoids contained in the Siberin fir tree increase the activity of genes responsible for regeneration of tissues and ighting tumors.
The article has been published in the journal Oncotarget.
"Terpenoid treatment increases the activity of genes responsible for tissue regeneration and suppression of tumor growth in old cells to the level observed in young cells," - the report reads.
Terpenoids are found in large quantities in coniferous plants and protect them from diseases and pests, as well as from many unfavorable environmental factors, such as overheating, freezing, damage, etc.

Cell Aging Pattern
To study the influence of Siberian fir terpenoids on the aging of cells, scientists resorted to transplanting cells into a new medium. Fibroblasts - cells of the body's connective tissue - were used in the experiment.
This technology was used by scientists as the pattern of aging. It turned out that in the old cells treated with terpenoids, the genes responsible for the assembly, packing and transporting complex proteins, as well as utilizing old proteins, became 1.5-3 times more active. Moreover, the activity of genes regulating the process of cell death and tissue regeneration increased.
In addition, terpenoids activated three genes of the GADD45 and DUSP8 families. These gene families are associated with both suppression of tumor development and life expectancy.
Thus, the research has demonstrated potential geroprotective and anti-cancer properties of Siberian fir (aka abies sibirica) and will possibly lead to expanding the filed of application of these substances.