The Prospects of Vitamin C in Cancer Therapy.

Author: Wang Jae LEE ¹
Author Information

1. Department of Anatomy and Tumor Immunity Medical Research Center, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 110-744, Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 110-799, Korea. kinglee@snu.ac.kr
Publication Type:Review
Keywords: ascorbate; ascorbic acid; vitamin C; cancer; intravenous; cytotoxicity; antioxidant; prooxidant; chemotherapy; tumor growth
MeSH: Ascorbic Acid; Humans; Vitamins
From:Immune Network 2009;9(5):147-152
CountryRepublic of Korea
Language:English
Abstract: Ascorbate (vitamin C) is a cofactor for a number of metabolic enzymes and is an indisputable essential vitamin C for humans. However, the potential of ascorbate as an anticancer agent has been a topic of controversy. A number of previous reports have addressed both positive aspects and limitations of ascorbate in cancer therapy. In this review, we briefly summarize the potential antitumor effects of ascorbate and its prospects for clinical use.