Repurposed Drugs for Cancer Stem Cells
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Targeting the Mitochondrial-Stem Cell Connection in Cancer Treatment: A Hybrid Orthomolecular Protocol
In a groundbreaking study published in the Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine, researchers explore an innovative approach to cancer treatment by focusing on the mitochondrial-stem cell connection. The article discusses potential repurposed drugs and therapies aimed at disrupting cancer stem cells (CSCs), which play a crucial role in cancer's ability to resist conventional treatments. This hybrid orthomolecular protocol highlights a range of pharmaceutical drugs, repurposed medications, dietary interventions, and complementary therapies that could offer new hope in the fight against cancer. You can find the full article here.
Potential Drugs for Targeting Cancer Stem Cells
Drugs for Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs)
There are some pharmaceutical drugs specifically targeting pathways linked to cancer stem cells (CSCs), like Vismodegib, Glasdegib, MK-0752, OMP-54F28, and Selinexor. Some other drugs target the mitochondria, including Metformin for energy production issues, and antibiotics like Doxycycline, Tigecycline, and Bedaquiline to affect how mitochondria function. While these drugs show promise, they often don't fully fix mitochondrial problems and can be dangerous to healthy cells, so they must be used cautiously.
Repurposed Drugs for Cancer Stem Cells
Ivermectin
Ivermectin, originally used to treat parasites, has been shown to kill cancer cells by causing them to self-destruct. Studies found that it significantly reduces tumor size in several types of cancer. It's especially effective in targeting CSCs, even more so than some chemotherapy drugs like Paclitaxel. In tests with pancreatic cancer, Ivermectin was more effective than standard chemotherapy (Gemcitabine). Remarkably, it has been safely used in humans at higher doses without serious side effects, even for up to 180 days straight.
Benzimidazoles (Fenbendazole & Mebendazole)
Benzimidazoles, which include Fenbendazole and Mebendazole, are originally anti-parasitic drugs but show strong anticancer properties. They work by disrupting cancer cell division and glucose metabolism, causing cancer cells to die. Both drugs have been found to be safe, with Mebendazole being FDA-approved for human use. In one study, it was more effective against cancer cells than several common chemotherapy drugs. In some cases, patients with advanced cancer saw remission after taking Fenbendazole, even after other treatments failed.
DON (6-diazo-5-oxo-L-norleucine)
DON is a drug that targets cancer cells by blocking glutamine, a key nutrient for cancer growth. It also helps reduce glucose uptake by cancer cells and can cause cancer stem cells to die. When used in low doses, it’s safe for human use.
Dietary Interventions
Fasting
Fasting can improve mitochondrial function, which helps kill off cancer cells, especially CSCs. It reduces the availability of glucose and glutamine that cancer cells rely on for energy. Research shows that fasting has anticancer effects, and when combined with certain drugs, it can boost their effectiveness. Some experts believe fasting could become a common part of cancer treatment if further studies confirm its benefits.
Ketogenic Diet and Ketone Supplements
The ketogenic diet (low-carb, high-fat) helps starve cancer cells by cutting off their supply of glucose, forcing them to rely on fat for energy, which they can't use efficiently. This diet has shown promise in both laboratory studies and human trials. For instance, it’s helped extend survival in patients with brain cancer. The combination of a ketogenic diet with drugs like DON can also reduce side effects.
Additional Therapies
Press-Pulse Therapy
This strategy combines a ketogenic diet with targeted therapies that block cancer cells' energy sources. It involves periods of "pressing" with the diet and "pulsing" with drugs like 2-deoxyglucose (blocks glucose), DON (blocks glutamine), and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (uses high oxygen levels to stress cancer cells).
Exercise
Physical activity has been shown to improve mitochondrial function and reduce cancer risk by making cells more energy-efficient. Regular exercise can also help slow the growth of cancer cells and encourage their death.
Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)
Since cancer cells thrive in low-oxygen environments, HBOT works by increasing oxygen levels, which stresses the cancer cells. Studies suggest it can slow cancer growth and is especially effective when combined with a ketogenic diet.
Proposed Treatment Plan for Targeting Cancer Stem Cells
Based on current research, a protocol is suggested that combines high-dose vitamins, repurposed drugs, and other therapies. Here's an overview:
- Intravenous Vitamin C: High doses (1.5g/kg, 2-3 times a week) have been proven safe and effective for cancer patients.
- Vitamin D: A daily dose of 50,000 IU is recommended for patients with low blood levels. Maintaining a healthy vitamin D level (80 ng/mL) is essential, and once that level is reached, a lower maintenance dose can be used.
- Zinc: A daily dose of 1 mg/kg is recommended, with adjustments based on blood levels.
- Ivermectin: Safe doses vary depending on cancer severity, ranging from 0.5mg/kg to 2mg/kg per day.
- Benzimidazoles or DON: For low-grade cancers, a small dose of Mebendazole (200 mg/day). For more severe cancers, higher doses (1,500 mg/day) or a combination with DON (also safely administered) can be used.
This protocol aims to target cancer cells, especially cancer stem cells, using a combination of drugs, diet, and other therapies.