Source: Fox News
Summary
A study from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine suggests that over-the-counter anti-aging supplements, including nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), nicotinamide riboside (NR), and nicotinamide (NAM), may impair cancer treatments. The research, published in Cancer Letters, found that these supplements, which boost NAD+ levels, could help cancer cells survive chemotherapy. The study focused on pancreatic cancer, which has a 13% five-year survival rate. In lab and animal models, the supplements protected cancer cells from chemotherapy drugs like oxaliplatin and gemcitabine. The researchers warn that while these supplements may benefit healthy cells, they could interfere with cancer treatment. They recommend that oncologists screen patients for supplement use and call for more research on their effects.
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Author: Evan Null
Over-the-Counter Anti-Aging Supplements
Millions of Americans take over-the-counter anti-aging supplements to boost energy and reduce chemotherapy side effects. These supplements include nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), nicotinamide riboside (NR), and nicotinamide (NAM). They are popular for their supposed health benefits and are often marketed as natural or safe.
Impact on Cancer Treatments
A new study from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine suggests that these supplements may actually impair cancer treatments. The research found that the supplements could help cancer cells survive chemotherapy, particularly in pancreatic cancer cases. The study was published in the journal Cancer Letters.
Role of NAD+
The supplements work by boosting NAD+ levels, a molecule that helps cells generate energy and repair damage. While this can be beneficial for non-cancerous cells, the study found that pancreatic cancer cells may use the extra resources to repair damage caused by chemotherapy and avoid cell death.
Lab and Animal Models
The study was conducted in laboratory settings and animal models. It found that the supplements shielded cancer cells against three common chemotherapy drugs: oxaliplatin, 5-fluorouracil, and gemcitabine. As a result, tumors survived chemotherapy doses that would typically be fatal.
Recommendations and Warnings
The researchers recommend that oncology teams screen patients for supplement use and call for more studies on how NAD+ precursors interact with cancer therapies. They also advise patients undergoing cancer treatment to consult their oncologists before taking any over-the-counter supplements. The study notes that the findings may not directly apply to human patients and that more research is needed.
