Additional Coverage:
- A 20-cent ‘wonder drug’ is being studied as a colon-cancer-fighting supplement, and it looks promising (businessinsider.com)
Common Diabetes Drug Shows Promise in Colon Cancer Fight
A widely prescribed and inexpensive diabetes drug, metformin, is showing early promise as a supplemental treatment for colon cancer. Researchers presented findings at the American Association for Cancer Research conference in Chicago, highlighting metformin’s interaction with difficult-to-treat colon cancer cells.
Holli Loomans-Kropp, a gastrointestinal cancer prevention researcher at The Ohio State University leading the study, believes metformin could be a valuable addition to existing therapies. While not potent enough as a standalone treatment, it may enhance the effectiveness of other cancer-fighting regimens.
This research builds upon previous studies indicating lower colon cancer rates among metformin users, suggesting a preventative role. Loomans-Kropp’s research delves into the drug’s potential to actively combat existing cancer cells.
Early cell-culture results suggest metformin could be particularly effective against colon cancers caused by a mutated KRAS gene, a notoriously difficult type to treat. While the research is still in its initial stages, requiring further animal testing before human trials can begin, the potential benefits are significant.
Metformin’s accessibility and affordability make it an attractive candidate for further research. As a generic drug, it costs mere cents per pill and is already used by millions worldwide.
Known for its positive effects beyond blood sugar control, metformin has been studied for heart health, cancer prevention, and even dementia. It works by altering how the body processes sugar, and some scientists believe it may even have anti-aging properties.
Similar to exercise and fasting, metformin influences energy regulation within the body and promotes autophagy – a process that eliminates damaged cells. Loomans-Kropp hopes to harness this mechanism to inhibit the growth and spread of colon cancer cells. This same energy-shifting property has sparked interest in metformin’s potential for disease prevention and healthy aging.
While further research is crucial, the early findings offer a glimmer of hope in the fight against colon cancer. If the initial results hold true in animal testing, human clinical trials could begin within a year.