Magnesium and Cancer Immunotherapy: A Narrative Practical Review
Daniela Sambataro1, Giuseppa Scandurra1, Vittorio Gebbia1
1Medical Oncology Unit, Department of Medicine and Surgery, Kore University of Enna, 94019 Enna, Italy.
Nutrients
|January 10, 2026
Summary
Magnesium (Mg2+) plays a key role in immune function, especially with cancer immunotherapies. Maintaining adequate magnesium levels may improve treatment response and patient survival outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Magnesium (Mg2+) is recognized for its biological functions and use in integrative oncology.
- Mg2+ influences immune cell function, crucial for effective immunotherapy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between Mg2+ and cancer immunotherapy.
- To explore future therapeutic strategies involving Mg2+.
Main Methods:
- A narrative review of selected full-text articles.
- Examination of preclinical and clinical data on Mg2+ and immunotherapy.
Main Results:
- Preclinical studies show Mg2+ regulates immune cells, particularly cytotoxic effectors.
- Evidence suggests normal or elevated Mg2+ may enhance immunotherapy response and survival.
Conclusions:
- Adequate Mg2+ homeostasis is vital during cancer immunotherapy.
- Further research is needed to confirm Mg2+'s impact on clinical outcomes with immune checkpoint blockers.
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