A recent study has found that a fatty acid found in beef and milk, known as trans-vaccenic acid (TVA), has the potential to target different types of cancer cells. The substance activates tumour-fighting immune cells and could potentially be used to supplement existing cancer treatments.
Researchers at the University of Chicago created a library of 255 nutritional compounds to study the effects of diet on health. They focused on compounds that could enhance the activation of certain T-cells, which are immune cells involved in the body's response to cancer. Through their research, they discovered that TVA was particularly potent in promoting anti-tumour immune activity in mouse melanoma cells.
Further experiments showed that mice with skin and colon cancer had significantly reduced tumour growth when they consumed a TVA-enriched diet. TVA specifically activated CD8+ T-cells, which are critical for killing cancer cells, by inactivating a particular receptor.
In addition, people with lymphoma cancer who had higher levels of TVA in their blood tended to respond better to immunotherapy treatments. In a laboratory experiment, TVA also enhanced the ability of an immunotherapy drug to kill human leukemia cells.
While these findings are promising, the researchers caution against consuming excessive amounts of meat or dairy to acquire TVA. High intake of red meat has been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers. Instead, they suggest taking supplements with enriched bioactive nutrients as a more efficient way to obtain TVA.
The results of this study highlight the potential of TVA to support T-cell-based immunotherapies. However, further research is needed to fully understand its effects and develop effective treatments. This study underscores the importance of studying the impact of diet on health, although it is challenging given the wide variety of available foods and variations in preparation methods.
In conclusion, the discovery of TVA's immune function and its potential in fighting cancer is intriguing. It opens up possibilities for further investigations and the development of new treatments. However, it is important to approach these findings with caution and continue research in order to fully understand the implications and potential benefits of TVA.