Vitamin C obtained from orange, strawberries and kiwi is known to be beneficial for the overall health and may become more popular in the treatment of cancer. A groundbreaking research commenced by the University of Otago, Christchurch claims that vitamin C can aid in restricting the growth of cancer cells. An association between vitamin C and tumor growth has been apparently displayed.
Since decades the role of vitamin C in cancer treatment has been a debatable issue. Prior investigations pointed out the benefits of vitamin C in both the prevention and treatment of cancer. Also, experts from New Zealand had suggested vitamin C to help in treating cancer. However, in the recent research, scientists ascertain patients with endometrial tumors to register reduced levels of vitamin C.
“Our results offer a promising and simple intervention to help in our fight against cancer, at the level of both prevention and cure,†commented Associate Professor Vissers of the University’s Free Radical Research Group and research author.
The investigators aimed to detect if cancer cells had decreased vitamin C levels and if this associated with tumor aggressiveness and resistance to chemotherapy. As a result, less quantity of vitamin C seemingly appeared in tumors as compared to normal healthy tissue. A correlation between lower levels of vitamin C and capacity of the tumor to survive and grow was apparently highlighted.
Elevated levels of the protein HIF-1 was noted by the researchers in the vitamin C deficient tumors. This protein is known to enable tumors to flourish in conditions of stress. A direct relationship between HIF-1 and vitamin C levels in tumors has been supposedly put forth which may advise patients with cancer cells to consume more vitamin C. Inclusion of vitamin C is anticipated to curb tumor growth, heighten the responsiveness to chemotherapy and restrict the formation of solid tumors.
The research is published in the latest edition of the Cancer Research journal.