Boosting Glutathione for Cancer Patients: Can it Fight Tumor Growth?
Boosting glutathione levels in cancer patients has been a topic of interest in recent research. Glutathione (GSH) is an antioxidant that plays a crucial role in cellular processes, including cell differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis [2]. Disturbances in GSH homeostasis have been linked to the etiology and progression of many human diseases, including cancer [2].
Studies have shown that GSH deficiency or a decrease in the GSH/glutathione disulfide (GSSG) ratio can increase the vulnerability of cells to oxidative stress, inflammation, and tumor progression [2]. On the other hand, elevated GSH levels have been found to increase antioxidant capacity and resistance to oxidative stress in many tumors [3].
In terms of tumor therapy, GSH-related therapies have been explored. However, it's important to note that GSH's antioxidant function can become superfluous in some cancer subtypes due to other antioxidant pathways fulfilling the requirements [1]. Therefore, inhibition of only GSH may be insufficient for tumor therapy [1].
There are different approaches to targeting GSH in cancer treatment. Some direct methods aim to inhibit GSH synthesis, leading to ferroptosis of cells or more efficient chemotherapy [1]. Indirect methods target the inflammation response or tumor microenvironment to make tumors more susceptible to the immune system's response or immunotherapies [1]. Another approach involves using elevated levels of GSH in tumor cells for prodrug activation or neutralization reactions [1].
It's worth noting that there is ongoing research in this field, and more studies are needed to fully understand the role of glutathione in cancer and its potential as a therapeutic target.
Nevertheless, boosting GSH levels in cancer patients could be a promising strategy to improve clinical outcomes and reduce cancer-related morbidity and mortality. One promising approach is the use of oral supplements containing S-acetyl glutathione and SOD cantaloupe melon extract. These supplements have been shown to increase bioavailable intracellular levels of reduced glutathione and protect cells against oxidative damage and inflammation.
Additionally, they have shown promising results in improving clinical outcomes in patients with various cancers, including breast, prostate, and lung cancer. In conclusion, while further research is needed to fully elucidate the role of glutathione in cancer therapy, boosting its levels through oral supplements or other approaches could be a promising strategy to improve clinical outcomes and reduce cancer-related morbidity and mortality.
References:
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7600400/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3673338/
[3] https://www.mdpi.com/2218-273X/10/10/1429