Dietary intervention as a therapeutic for cancer
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Published on: February 23, 2024
Mami Morita1, Kei Kudo1, Hiroshi Shima1
1Division of Cancer Chemotherapy, Miyagi Cancer Center Research Institute, Natori, Japan.
Abstract:
Cancer metabolism is influenced by availability of nutrients in the microenvironment and can to some extent be manipulated by dietary modifications that target oncogenic metabolism. As yet, few dietary interventions have been scientifically proven to mitigate disease progression or enhance any other kind of therapy in human cancer. However, recent advances in the understanding of cancer metabolism enable us to predict or devise effective dietary interventions that might antagonize tumor growth. In fact, evidence emerging from preclinical models suggests that appropriate combinations of specific cancer therapies with dietary interventions could critically impact therapeutic efficacy. Here, we review the potential benefits of precision nutrition approaches in augmenting the efficacy of cancer treatment.
Insights
Dietary modifications targeting cancer metabolism show promise. Combining precision nutrition with cancer therapies may improve treatment efficacy, according to preclinical models.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nutritional Science
- Metabolic Research
Background:
- Cancer cell metabolism is highly adaptable and influenced by nutrient availability.
- Dietary interventions can potentially target and manipulate cancer metabolism.
- Few dietary strategies are scientifically validated for cancer treatment in humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the potential benefits of precision nutrition in cancer therapy.
- To explore how dietary interventions can augment cancer treatment efficacy.
- To highlight advances in understanding cancer metabolism for dietary applications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of cancer metabolism and dietary interventions.
- Analysis of preclinical evidence on combined therapies.
- Synthesis of current understanding of oncogenic metabolism.
Main Results:
- Emerging evidence suggests dietary interventions can antagonize tumor growth.
- Combinations of specific cancer therapies and diets show potential impact.
- Precision nutrition approaches are being developed based on metabolic insights.
Conclusions:
- Precision nutrition holds potential for enhancing cancer treatment outcomes.
- Further research is needed to validate dietary interventions in human cancer.
- Integrating dietary strategies with targeted therapies may improve patient prognosis.
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