A Fermented Wheat Germ Extract Contains Protein Components Active against NSCLC Xenografts In Vivo
Daniel J Levis1, Joshua F Meckler1, Robert T O'Donnell1
1Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of California Davis School of Medicine, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA.
Current Issues in Molecular Biology
|September 27, 2023
Summary
Fermented wheat germ protein (FWGP) shows anti-tumor effects against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) in lab and animal studies. This potential therapy demonstrated efficacy without causing toxicity in mice.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Biochemistry
- Nutraceutical research
Background:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) remains a leading cause of cancer mortality.
- Current NSCLC treatments often cause significant side effects, limiting patient adherence.
- There is a critical need for non-toxic, effective therapies, particularly for elderly patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the anti-tumor activity of fermented wheat germ protein (FWGP) against NSCLC.
- To evaluate the safety and toxicity profile of FWGP in preclinical models.
Main Methods:
- In vitro cytotoxicity assays were performed on multiple NSCLC cell lines.
- In vivo efficacy was assessed using A549 lung cancer xenografts in athymic mice.
- Toxicity was monitored through weight changes and blood chemistry analysis.
Main Results:
- FWGP exhibited in vitro cytotoxicity against NSCLC cell lines with IC50 values comparable to Avemar.
- Significant inhibition of A549 xenograft tumor growth was observed in mice treated with FWGP.
- No observable toxicities were detected in mice receiving FWGP treatment.
Conclusions:
- FWGP demonstrates promising anti-tumor activity against NSCLC in vitro and in vivo.
- FWGP appears to be a non-toxic therapeutic agent for lung cancer.
- Further research into FWGP for lung cancer and other cancers is warranted.
