Tackling Tumors with TVA: The study, published in Nature, reveals that trans-vaccenic acid (TVA), a long-chain fatty acid found in meat and dairy products from grazing animals like cows and sheep, enhances the ability of CD8+ T cells to infiltrate tumors. This nutritional discovery suggests that TVA could be used as a supplement to complement clinical cancer treatments.
Researchers screened a “blood nutrient” compound library for molecules derived from nutrients that activate CD8+ T cells critical for killing cancerous cells. TVA, the most abundant trans fatty acid in human milk, outperformed others in influencing anti-tumor immunity. Mouse models on a TVA-enriched diet showed reduced tumor growth potential, and CD8+ T cells had improved tumor-fighting abilities.
The study also found that patients with higher levels of TVA in their blood responded better to immunotherapy. While this suggests TVA as a potential supplement for T cell-based cancer treatments, the researchers emphasize the need to determine the optimized amount of the nutrient, not the food source, for consumption.
This metabolomic approach, focusing on nutrients and metabolites derived from food, holds promise in understanding how diet impacts health. The researchers aim to build a comprehensive library of nutrients circulating in the blood to explore their effects on immunity and other biological processes.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Can killer T cells destroy cancer cells?
Killer T-cells are the direct assassins of cancer cells. They locate and eliminate cancer cells with ease. On the other hand, Helper T-cells play an indirect role in the fight against cancer. They coordinate and manage the battle against cancer cells, ensuring that the body’s defense system is working at its best. By working together, these two types of T-cells form a formidable team that can effectively combat cancer.
What foods are high in TVA?
Researchers at UChicago have made a groundbreaking discovery that could revolutionize cancer treatment. They found that trans-vaccenic acid (TVA), a type of fatty acid commonly found in beef, lamb, and dairy products, can significantly enhance the ability of immune cells to combat tumors. This exciting development could pave the way for new therapies that harness the power of TVA to fight cancer more effectively. The implications of this research are truly remarkable and offer hope to millions of people affected by this devastating disease.
What cancer drug shrinks tumors?
Pembrolizumab works by blocking PD-1, which in turn enhances the immune response against cancer cells. This can lead to the shrinking of tumors or a reduction in their growth rate.
Can eating red meat and dairy help fight cancer intriguing new study?
Researchers from the University of Chicago have discovered that trans-vaccenic acid (TVA), a long-chain fatty acid commonly found in meat and dairy products, can enhance the ability of specific immune cells to combat cancer cells. This breakthrough study highlights the potential of TVA as a powerful tool in the fight against cancer.