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.
Abstract:
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) continues to be the leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Although advances have been made in the past decade to treat such tumors, most options induce multiple side effects, and many patients discontinue therapy due to toxicity. Thus, the need remains for non-toxic, effective NSCLC therapies, especially in an elderly patient population. Our lab has previously identified a protein fraction from the nutraceutical Avemar®-dubbed fermented wheat germ protein (FWGP)-with demonstrated efficacy in lymphoma models both in vitro and in vivo. Here, we show that FWGP also has anti-tumor activity in vitro and in vivo against lung cancer. In vitro cytotoxicity against multiple lung cancer cell lines yielded IC50 values comparable to those previously established with the parent product, Avemar. Further, significant A549 xenograft growth inhibition occurred in athymic nu/nu mice receiving FWGP in both pre-radiated and non-radiated models when compared to the untreated control. Encouragingly, mice treated with FWGP experienced no toxicities as detected by weight reduction or blood chemistry analysis. These data support the further study of FWGP as a potential non-toxic therapy for lung cancer and other oncologic indications.
Insights
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.
