HDMF is more potent than HMF. HMF
and HDMF, similar to HEMF, are effective as anticarcinogens
when fed to mice following carcinogen exposure, and
hence act at the postinitiation stage. This is also supported
by the inhibitory activity of 4-hydroxy-3(2H)-furanones
against H2O2 generation by human PMNs stimulated by the
potent tumor promoter TPA. As part of their anticarcinogenic
action, these 4-hydroxy-3(2H)-furanones may affect
ROS concentration, and prevent oxidative DNA damage
caused by ROS at the postinitiation stage.