Mumbai: In a groundbreaking development, the Tata Institute in Mumbai has announced a significant breakthrough in cancer treatment, potentially revolutionizing the approach to battling this deadly disease. After a decade of intensive research, the institute has unveiled a tablet that not only promises to prevent the recurrence of cancer but also significantly reduces the adverse effects of conventional treatments like radiation and chemotherapy.
Dr. Rajendra Badve, a senior cancer surgeon at Tata Memorial Hospital and a key member of the research team, explained the core of their discovery. Through their studies involving rats implanted with human cancer cells, the researchers identified that dying cancer cells release cell-free chromatin particles (cfChPs) which have the capability to transform healthy cells into cancerous ones. These particles, when circulating in the bloodstream, pose a significant risk of metastasis and the formation of new tumors.
"To address this challenge," Dr. Badve elaborated, "we administered pro-oxidant tablets containing resveratrol and copper (R+Cu) to the rats." The R+Cu formulation triggers the generation of oxygen radicals, which effectively destroy the chromatin particles, thus thwarting metastasis. Moreover, when ingested orally, these tablets produce oxygen radicals in the stomach, quickly absorbed into the bloodstream to neutralize circulating cfChPs. Remarkably, the R+Cu tablets also demonstrate a protective effect against chemotherapy toxicity.
The researchers, in their presentation, hailed this breakthrough as the "Magic of R+Cu."
According to Dr. Badve, this tablet not only mitigates the side effects of cancer treatment by approximately 50 percent but also exhibits around 30 percent efficacy in preventing cancer recurrence. Importantly, it shows promise in combating cancers affecting vital organs such as the pancreas, lungs, and oral cavity.
"The development of this tablet," Dr. Badve emphasized, "is the result of nearly a decade of dedicated efforts by Tata doctors and scientists." Currently awaiting approval from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the tablet is expected to hit the market by June-July. Dr. Badve underscored the affordability aspect, noting that while cancer treatment costs often run into lakhs or crores, this tablet will be accessible to all at just ₹100.
Commenting on the research journey, Dr. Badve acknowledged the skepticism and challenges faced along the way. "Many doubted the feasibility and utility of our endeavors," he revealed, "but today, we stand vindicated. This represents a significant milestone in the fight against cancer."
While the tablet's efficacy in mitigating side effects has been validated in both animal and human studies, further trials are underway to assess its preventive potential in humans. Dr. Badve estimated that it may take up to five years to complete these trials, underscoring the meticulous approach taken in advancing this groundbreaking treatment.
This pioneering achievement holds immense promise in transforming the landscape of cancer treatment, offering hope and relief to millions battling this formidable disease.