THEsupply it is no longer just prevention, but a precision therapeutic ally against cancerIn fact, specific molecules contained in some foods, including typical Christmas foods, can act as real switches for the immune system, enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapy: starting from the oleic acid contained in extra virgin olive oil and dried fruit,
To take stock of which foods are 'allies' and which are not, were the specialists who recently met in Naples on the occasion of the 16th edition of the Melanoma Bridge and 11th edition of the Immunotherapy Bridge, two international events dedicated to immunotherapy.
“For decades, the relationship between diet and cancer has often been reduced to bans and warnings – he said Paolo Ascierto, full professor of Oncology at the Federico II University of Naples and president of the Melanoma Foundation Onlus -Today, a growing body of scientific research is revolutionizing this perspective, demonstrating that food may contain substances that act as treatment 'boosters', enhancing the effectiveness of immunotherapy.
Olive oil
A recent study appeared in the journal Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy* of the Nature group, revealed how the quality of fats hired pbones program our anti-tumor immunityA group of researchers from the University of Hong Kong has discovered that oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat essential to the Mediterranean diet, It is able to restore the functionality of the crucial gamma delta T cells of our immune system, compromised by the excessive presence of palmitic acid (a saturated fat).
“Chinese scientists – commented Ascierto – They discovered that oleic acid, which is abundant in olive oil and also found in avocados and nuts (such as walnuts and almonds), can "recharge" these T cells, significantly boosting their aggressiveness against tumors. Conversely, saturated fatty acids, such as palmitic acid, found in processed foods, palm oil, and fatty meats, tend to promote inflammation and oxidative stress. Essentially, the proper choice of fats in our diet appears to determine whether our T cells are armed or disarmed in the fight against malignant cells.
Fructose
If the balance between saturated and unsaturated fats is crucial, even more surprising is the reevaluated role of a simple sugar: fructose. Long associated with the growth of certain tumors, a study conducted in Shanghai and published in Cell metabolism revealed a more nuanced reality: A diet rich in fructose can strengthen the immune response against cancer, reducing its progression and lethality..
“The study showed that dietary fructose, which is found in typical Christmas foods such as dried figs and dates, promotes the cells' anti-tumor immunity by increasing the activity of CD8+ T lymphocytes, the 'killer' cells responsible for identifying and killing tumor cells – Ascierto specified –This enhancement is mediated by the production of leptin, the satiety hormone.”. But be careful. "The study does not indicate that stocking up on sugar automatically helps fight cancer. – the oncologist specified -. The results suggest that fructose could be exploited in a targeted way."Not surprisingly, Professor Ascierto is involved in an AIRC research project aimed at improving the clinical response to immunotherapy in melanoma by improving the composition of the intestinal microbiota through a combination of a Mediterranean diet and dietary supplementation with fructose and water-soluble fiber.
Meat and dairy products
Another amazing nutrient istrans-vaccenic acid (TVA), a molecule that the human body cannot produce on its own and which is found in meat and dairy products from pastured animals. A study by the University of Chicago has rehabilitated, at least in part, the consumption of these foods, discovering that TVA can strengthen the immune response against cancer. “The mechanism is twofold – Ascierto explained –. TVA inhibits a receptor (GPR43) usually activated by harmful fatty acids, and simultaneously activates the 'CREB pathway' which improves cell survival and differentiation”Clinical results are promising: patients with higher levels of circulating TVA in their blood responded better to immunotherapy.
Combat Diet
These studies, from fat balancing to modulation by fructose and TVA, unequivocally demonstrate that the interaction between diet and the immune system is not a trivial concept, but a complex biochemical network. “Research is moving towards the definition of a truly personalized 'combat diet' – concluded Ascierto -. Further studies are needed to understand exactly if and how to leverage specific nutrients to strengthen our immune system's ability to fight cancer. The ultimate goal is to transform food into precision medicine, expanding treatment options for cancer patients.
