High doses of vitamin B3, known as niacin, can activate the human immune system to destroy glioblastoma cells—the most aggressive form of brain cancer. These findings come from clinical trials, as reported by infohub.kz.
Researchers at the University of Calgary conducted trials of the new treatment approach. In phase one and phase two clinical trials, controlled high doses of vitamin B3—niacin—were added to standard radiation and chemotherapy.
The research project was led by oncologist Gloria Roldán Urgoiti and neuroscientist V Wee Yong of the Cumming School of Medicine. Glioblastoma blocks the body's defense systems, but experimental use of niacin helps "awaken" and rejuvenate immune cells, restoring their ability to attack and destroy the tumor. This effect was initially identified in laboratory experiments on mice.
The trial involved 24 patients. In 82% of participants, the disease did not progress for six months, which is 28% higher than historical rates for standard therapy. One participant, 55-year-old Edward Waldner, noted significant improvement in his condition and stable scan results.
The authors from the Hotchkiss Brain Institute and the Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute emphasize that high doses of niacin can be toxic, so treatment must be under strict medical supervision. The results of the study, published in the Journal of Neuro-Oncology, will be finalized after enrolling 48 volunteers.
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