Resveratrol and Copper-Based Pill: Mumbai Researchers Develop Revolutionary Cancer Treatment
Mumbai, 28th February 2024: Researchers at the Tata Institute in Mumbai have announced a groundbreaking discovery of a specialised cancer medication capable of treating stage 4 metastatic cancer. Metastatic cancer represents the advanced fourth stage, where cancer cells detach and spread throughout the body. Following a decade of dedicated research, a newly developed pill has been identified to mitigate the risk of cancer, available at a nominal cost of 100 rupees.
Dr Rajendra Badve, a cancer surgeon at the Tata Institute in Mumbai, explained the extensive 10-year study focused on understanding the proliferation of metastatic cancer cells. The research delved into the reasons behind the occurrence of metastatic cancer and meticulously examined the side effects associated with conventional chemotherapy. Dr. Mitra played a key role in conducting experiments, initially on a mouse model, revealing a significant reduction in chemotherapy-induced side effects. Subsequent human trials demonstrated a remarkable decrease in side effects by 30 to 60%.
A bone marrow transplant is often regarded as an advanced form of chemotherapy, where patients undergo significant distress as their cells are depleted. Unfortunately, this procedure is time-consuming, and cancer patients frequently encounter challenges, such as painful mouth sores, following traditional chemotherapy. The medication discussed here, a resveratrol and copper-based pill, aims to address these side effects. Resveratrol, known for its anti-ageing properties, exhibits enhanced efficacy when combined with copper. This affordable pill has demonstrated the potential to prevent the escalation of side effects to a severe stage.
The proposed pill holds great promise due to its cost-effectiveness. Over the past five years, various new treatment methods have emerged, offering a 5 to 10 % reduction in the risk of cancer. However, these alternatives come at a substantial cost, ranging from one lakh to four crores. In stark contrast, the introduced pill is priced at Rs 100 or even less. The pill is currently awaiting approval, with expectations to launch by June to July, offering relief from chemotherapy-induced side effects. It is emphasized that while the pill can mitigate side effects post-chemotherapy, preventing cancer from advancing to the fourth stage may require additional time and research, as stated by Dr. Badve.
While cancer treatment often involves surgery, advancements in treatment methods have shifted the focus towards comprehensive approaches. The significance of the upcoming pill lies in its potential to impede the spread of cancer within the body. For instance, in cases of breast cancer, where 50% of patients can now survive, Dr Rajendra Badve underscores the importance of continuous treatment over three to four years and the need for further improvement.
Recognizing past shortcomings, this pill marks a pivotal moment in refining cancer treatment. Its intended impact goes beyond mitigating side effects and extends to various cancer types. Ongoing research explores the efficacy of the pill in addressing the side effects of different cancers, such as lung cancer and mouth cancer. This pioneering approach holds promise for enhancing overall treatment outcomes and providing a more effective and efficient solution across diverse cancer types.
