
A groundbreaking study from the University of Chicago, published in Nature, reveals how Trans-vaccenic acid (TVA), a fatty acid found in meat and dairy products, can significantly boost the body’s cancer-fighting capabilities.
TVA, prevalent in grazing animal products like beef and sheep, has been found to enhance CD8+ T cells, vital in destroying cancer cells.
TVA and Immunotherapy: A Promising Duo
This study, led by Professor Jing Chen and colleagues, highlights that patients with higher levels of TVA in their bloodstream showed improved responses to cancer immunotherapy.
These findings open the door to potential uses of TVA as a nutritional supplement alongside clinical cancer treatments.
The research team embarked on a unique journey, starting with a comprehensive database of over 700 food-derived metabolites. They whittled this down to 235 molecules and screened them for their ability to activate anti-tumor immunity.
TVA emerged as the top performer, enhancing the infiltration and efficacy of CD8+ T cells in tumors.
In-depth experiments demonstrated that TVA works by inactivating a cell surface receptor known as GPR43, commonly activated by short-chain fatty acids from gut bacteria.
This deactivation triggers the CREB pathway, crucial for various cellular functions, including growth and survival.
Clinical Implications: Boosting Immunotherapy Effectiveness
Analyzing blood samples from patients undergoing CAR-T cell therapy for lymphoma, the team found a direct correlation between higher TVA levels and better treatment response.
Additionally, TVA was observed to increase the effectiveness of an immunotherapy drug in killing leukemia cells.
While TVA is found in red meat and dairy, the study emphasizes focusing on the nutrient itself rather than increasing consumption of these foods, which can have other health implications.
The team is optimistic about discovering other plant-based fatty acids that might have similar effects.
This study represents a significant leap in understanding the impact of dietary building blocks on our health.
The researchers aim to develop a comprehensive nutrient library, analyzing how these substances influence immunity and other biological processes, such as aging.
Conclusion: A Nutritional Boost for Fighting Cancer
Trans-vaccenic acid presents a novel and promising avenue for enhancing the effectiveness of T cell-based cancer therapies.
This research not only sheds light on the intricate relationship between diet and health but also opens new doors for innovative cancer treatment strategies.
If you care about cancer, please read studies about Diabetes drug metformin is a promising ally in prostate cancer battle and findings of Colorectal cancer: The best screening test is the one you take.
For more information about cancer prevention, please see recent studies about nutrient in fish that can be a poison for cancer, and results showing this daily vitamin is critical to cancer prevention.
The research findings can be found in Nature.
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