by Marcel Hernandez, N.D.
Daily Dose of Vitamin D Could Slash Cancer Deaths: study
A new study from the German Cancer Research Center reviewed 14 separate studies involving 105,000 people and concluded that a daily dose of Vitamin D could reduce cancer deaths by 12 percent. The researchers said that using the vitamin may not protect against developing cancer, but “could reduce the likelihood of dying from cancer.”
My Comment: While it would be undignified to say “Duh!” – I would merely observe that naturopathic oncologists have known for years that a Vitamin D3 blood value of between 60 and 80 ng/ml is an important part of a therapeutic regimen for cancer. In my experience, I have never had new cancer patient who had a satisfactory blood value of Vitamin D3.
I recommend 5000 IU a day for everyone, with occasional serum checks to make sure the levels stay within range. We can also receive additional Vitamin D from exposure to sunlight and by consuming egg yolks and oily fish such as salmon.
Scientists Develop a Molecule that Kills Tumors Without Affecting Other Cells
A mutated protein called proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) helps tumors repair and grow. A team of researchers at City of Hope developed a molecule, AOH1996, that targets and kills the mutated PCNA. The researchers stated that AOH1996 can suppress tumor reproduction and growth as a monotherapy or in conjunction with other drugs without having a negative effect on normal, healthy cells. More than 70 cancer cell lines have been successfully addressed by AOH1996.
My Comment: AOH1996 is a drug that is classified as a “targeted therapy” in that it addresses a specific biochemical pathway of tumor metabolism rather than trying to kill the tumor with a chemical, as chemotherapy does.
It is clear from the soaring cancer rates that we have not yet found a definitive cure, although through adjunctive cancer care we have developed strategies to slow cancer growth, and in some cases, achieve stability. Clinical trials with AOH1996 are just starting. If interested, contact City of Hope directly to inquire about the trial: https://www.cityofhope.org
Scientists Successfully Use Artificial DNA To Kill Cancer Cells
Researchers at the University of Tokyo, stymied by the lack of success of chemotherapy, have created artificial DNA to target and destroy cancer cells. While looking for a different mechanism of action in cancer therapy, they found that creating a fake DNA activates a powerful immune response that eliminates cancer cells and hinders further tumor growth.
My Comment: As a naturopathic doctor, I always favor approaches that enhance and stimulate the body’s own immune system to seek out and destroy tumors. One of the dangers of helping the immune system recognize a tumor is that an overwhelming immune system response can also create a huge inflammatory condition as the immune cells try to kill the tumor. No clinical trials have yet been announced. https://www.h.u-tokyo.ac.jp/english/centers-services/central-clinical-facilities/cancer-resource-center/index.html#
Newly discovered T-Cells Could Rid Late Stage Cancer Patients of Tumors
Scientists at Cardiff University in Wales have identified a patient who possessed “souped-up” killer T-cells that are much better at recognizing tumors than normal T-cells. From studying this person’s immune system, the scientists have developed what they call Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocyte therapy, or “TIL.”
The scientists at Cardiff have successfully treated several late-stage cancer patients by taking the patient’s own white cells and artificially enhancing them to attack the cancer. In clinical trials, TIL therapy has been successful in 80 percent of cancer cases.
My Comment: Again, any cancer therapy that uses the body’s own immune system to deal with the tumor may possibly spare the patient from the devastating effects of chemotherapy. The scientists at Cardiff University are still trying to figure out how this therapy works; stay tuned. https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/research/explore/research-topics/biomedical-and-life-sciences/cancer
For information about the services we offer, we invite you to get in touch in any of these convenient ways: (1) give us a call at 650-961-1660, (2) use the Contact Form, or (3) follow the link to Consultations – Pacific Naturopathic. Thank you!