Cancer Treatment
Researchers at the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) in collaboration with medical professionals from Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH) have made significant strides in cancer treatment. Their decade-long research has yielded a novel approach using a tablet to potentially prevent cancer recurrence and reduce the side effects of existing treatments.
Key Findings and Potential Impact:
- The research team, led by Dr. Rajendra Badve, a senior cancer surgeon at TMH, focused on the behavior of dying cancer cells. They observed that these cells release fragments of chromosomes called “cell-free chromatin particles” (cfChPs) that can potentially trigger cancer in healthy cells.
- To address this challenge, the researchers developed a tablet containing resveratrol and copper (R+Cu). This combination generates oxygen radicals within the stomach upon ingestion, which enter the bloodstream and potentially destroy circulating cfChPs.
- The researchers claim that the R+Cu tablet could:
- Reduce side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy by 50%.
- Offer a 30% effectiveness in preventing cancer recurrence.
- Potentially benefit patients with pancreatic, lung, and oral cancers.
Rajendra Badve said that the budget for the cancer treatment ranges from lakhs to crores. “But, this tablet will be available everywhere for just ₹100,” he added.
While these findings are encouraging, it is crucial to emphasize that the research is still in its early stages. The R+Cu tablet is currently awaiting approval from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and has not yet undergone clinical trials on humans.
