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.