Mumbai: The Tata Institute of Medical and Research, a premier cancer research and treatment center in India, has claimed a breakthrough in cancer treatment with a novel tablet. This "Rs 100 tablet" is said to:
- Reduce the risk of cancer recurrence: The tablet reportedly targets cell-free chromatin particles (cfChPs) released by dying cancer cells, which can turn healthy cells cancerous. By destroying these particles, the tablet aims to prevent the development of new tumors.
- Mitigate side effects of cancer treatment: The tablet's "R+Cu" composition, consisting of resveratrol and copper, is said to generate oxygen radicals that destroy cfChPs. These radicals are also claimed to reduce the toxicity associated with chemotherapy and radiation by 50%.
Key points:
- The research involved treating rats with cancer cells followed by various therapies.
- The tablet is still under development and awaiting approval from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Expected availability is by June-July 2024.
- Human trials for preventing cancer recurrence are planned but will take approximately five years to complete.
- The affordable cost of Rs 100 per tablet is intended to make it accessible to a wider population.