Cancer Treatment Update: Tata Institute claims sccess with “Rs 100 Tablet” that prevents cancer from coming back
In a major leap forward in the fight against cancer, the Tata Memorial Centre (TMC) in Mumbai has unveiled a promising new treatment that could change the landscape of cancer care. Spearheaded by Dr. Rajendra Badwe, Director of TMC, and Dr. Indraneel Mittra, an onco-surgeon-turned-scientist, the team’s decade-long research has culminated in the development of a Rs 100 tablet. This tablet not only aims to significantly reduce the side effects associated with conventional cancer therapies but also presents a potential safeguard against the recurrence of the disease.
A Beacon of Hope
The innovative treatment hinges on a critical discovery related to the behavior of cancer cells post-treatment. Research findings indicate that cell-free chromatin particles (cfChPs) released by dying cancer cells, following chemotherapy and radiotherapy, have the capacity to transform healthy cells into cancerous ones. The Tata Institute’s research, as detailed in a Hindustan Times report, highlights how a pro-oxidant combination of resveratrol and copper (R+Cu) can effectively neutralize these chromatin particles, mitigating the risk of metastasis and reducing chemotherapy toxicity.
The Pill’s Potential
According to Dr. Badwe in an interview with NDTV, the tablet is on the brink of receiving approval from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), expected around June or July. It promises to cut the side effects of cancer treatment by half and reduce the likelihood of cancer relapse by 30%. This marks it as not only the most cost-effective solution in the cancer treatment arsenal to date but also a significant milestone in making cancer care more accessible.
The Science Behind the Success
Dr. Mittra’s team conducted experiments on immunodeficient mice implanted with human breast cancer cells. After dividing the mice into groups based on the type of cancer treatment received—chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or surgery—they observed an increase in chromatin in the mouse brain across all treatments. The application of R+Cu orally was found to destroy these chromatin particles effectively, preventing the spread of cancer cells to new areas of the body.
A Global Context
This revelation comes at a time when the global scientific community is intensely focused on cancer research. Notably, Russian President Vladimir Putin recently announced that Russian scientists are nearing the development of cancer vaccines, further underscoring the international efforts to combat this disease.
Looking Ahead
While the Tata Institute’s Rs 100 tablet represents a significant breakthrough, Dr. Badwe cautions that the benefits of this new treatment might not be immediately available. Human trials are expected to extend over the next five to six years to thoroughly assess the tablet’s efficacy and safety in preventing cancer resurgence.
Conclusion
The Tata Memorial Centre’s discovery of a Rs 100 tablet that could potentially prevent cancer recurrence and alleviate treatment side effects is a beacon of hope in the ongoing battle against cancer. With further testing and approval, this innovation could significantly enhance the quality of life for cancer patients worldwide, marking a pivotal moment in cancer treatment history.
This news is based on early media reports and the tablet is in early stages of development and needs to get relevant approvals before hitting the pharmacies.
