Drug that makes our ‘brains happier' can also fight tumors: study
This will brighten your mood.
A surprising new study has found that some common medication used to make people feel better might also be effective in the fight against cancer.
'These drugs have been widely and safely used to treat depression for decades, so repurposing them for cancer would be a lot easier than developing an entirely new therapy,' Dr. Lili Yang, a member of the Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regenerative Medicine and Stem Cell Research at UCLA, said in a press release.
3 A surprising new study has found that some common medication used to make people feel better might also be effective in the fight against cancer.
Tyler Olson – stock.adobe.com
Yang and her team found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs — medications like Prozac and Celexa that millions of Americans take daily — can help T-cells tackle tumors with greater aplomb.
'It turns out SSRIs don't just make our brains happier; they also make our T-cells happier — even while they're fighting tumors,' she said.
In lab tests using both mouse and human tumor models — spanning melanoma, breast, prostate, colon and bladder cancers — SSRIs shrunk tumors by over 50%.
The drugs heightened killer-T‑cell activity, enhancing their ability to locate and destroy cancer cells.
'SSRIs made the killer T cells happier in the otherwise oppressive tumor environment by increasing their access to serotonin signals, reinvigorating them to fight and kill cancer cells,' Yang said.
3 Yang and her team found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs — medications like Prozac and Celexa that millions of Americans take daily — can help T-cells tackle tumors with greater aplomb.
KMPZZZ – stock.adobe.com
While serotonin is primarily known for regulating mood, it also plays a crucial role in managing sleep, gut health, appetite, libido and blood clotting.
Now, it's being given its proper due in combatting this devastating disease.
The research, which was published in the journal Cell, has exciting implications for cancer treatment, since SSRIs are already FDA-approved, paving the way for clinical trials.
'Studies estimate the bench-to-bedside pipeline for new cancer therapies costs an average of $1.5 billion,' she said.
'When you compare this to the estimated $300 million cost to repurpose FDA-approved drugs, it's clear why this approach has so much potential.'
3 'It turns out SSRIs don't just make our brains happier; they also make our T cells happier — even while they're fighting tumors,' she said.
Daniel – stock.adobe.com
Even better?
When SSRIs were paired with existing cancer immunotherapy, the results were even more dramatic.
Treated mice saw tumors shrink dramatically, and in some cases, vanish altogether.
'Immune checkpoint blockades are effective in fewer than 25% of patients,' study co-author James Elsten-Brown, a graduate student in the Yang lab, said.
'If a safe, widely available drug like an SSRI could make these therapies more effective, it would be hugely impactful.'
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Hill
an hour ago
- The Hill
Dr. Oz welcomes move by states to reduce migrant health coverage
Dr. Mehmet Oz, the celebrity doctor who oversees Medicaid and Medicare for the Trump administration, welcomes the move by a trio of blue states — California, Illinois and Minnesota — to freeze or reduce health care benefits for undocumented migrants. He told NewsNation's 'CUOMO' on Friday that some states broadened their public medical programs to include migrants because they could leverage federal dollars to pay for it, but Medicaid is supposed to be reserved for the most vulnerable Americans. 'If we extend it to illegal immigrants without keeping tabs of what those costs are — and especially if we have a system that encourages states to do legalized money laundering, to push more money towards able-bodied individuals — the dollar doesn't stretch that far. You end up bankrupting the whole system,' the former TV host said Friday. In California, Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) proposes suspending new health care enrollment for undocumented adults, although existing patients would continue to receive some coverage. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) would go further, ending his state's immigrant adult health program, which covers more than 30,000 people, on July 1. Minnesota is making undocumented adults ineligible for health care assistance by the end of the year. 'Taking care of a large population of undocumented folks has become a problem, and states have to manage that,' Oz said. The top health official's comments come after the administration moved to end Obamacare's coverage of immigrants who entered the U.S. illegally as children, according to a final rule announced Friday. The provision will undo a Biden-era rule that was estimated to allow 147,000 immigrants to enroll in coverage. A federal judge blocked the rule from being enforced in 19 states, and it is still being litigated in court.
Time Magazine
2 hours ago
- Time Magazine
We Need to Invest in the Heartland
For too long, the national conversation about innovation, the future of higher education, and economic growth has been dominated by a handful of colleges and universities largely based in coastal power centers. In doing so, we've overlooked the rest of the country and have weakened the broader foundation of American capitalism and democracy. There is another path forward—and it runs through the heartland of America. Across the country, families, and employers are rethinking the value of a college degree. Meanwhile, the pace of technological change is accelerating—AI is transforming industries, new sectors are emerging, and the demand for skilled talent is shifting rapidly. This comes at a time when public trust in institutions is eroding, and millions of Americans are asking whether our systems still work for them. Whether America leads or lags in this new window of opportunity depends on how we respond. With bold leadership and deep partnerships between universities and the private sector, the heartland can become the driving force behind America's next wave of innovation, economic competitiveness, and shared prosperity. Businesses and philanthropists are uniquely positioned to scale this pivotal moment: one that calls for a new, more inclusive era of American innovation and entrepreneurial growth. In the Midwest, universities are working hand-in-hand with businesses—and proving that the innovation and growth of the future will not be confined to any one part of the country. This region is uniquely suited to lead the next wave of American renewal. It has what the moment demands: grit, talent, urgency, and values that anchor capitalism in real lives and impact. As a nation, we often overlook where some of the most consequential innovation is happening. While innovation breakthroughs are happening at an exciting pace in the heartland, venture capital dollars continue to concentrate in California, New York, and coastal cities. Moreover, research centers are partnering with hospitals and farms, and in classrooms from coast to coast students are working with local employers to move forward in areas like AI, energy, bioscience, and robotics. This is where innovation reaches scale and serves everyday people, and not just markets or valuations. The future of American prosperity will be shaped by whether states, the federal government, and individual donors continue to invest in public universities embedded in their communities—institutions that serve as launchpads for discovery, entrepreneurship, and upward mobility for millions of people. For more than 80 years, universities have partnered with government and industry to drive innovation, advance research, and develop a skilled workforce. For the United States to maintain its global leadership, it is important for these three sectors to renew and strengthen their collaboration in the face of emerging challenges and opportunities. Public institutions, in fact, enroll three-quarters of the roughly 19 million college students in the United States, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. More specifically, America's land-grant institutions, created by and for the people, are uniquely positioned to rewrite the value proposition for higher education for the next generation. Access and opportunity are at the core of our mission, calling us to do work that directly benefits the people we serve. We exist to make life better in the communities of which we are a part. At The Ohio State University, demand is soaring for affordable academic programs, deep partnerships with industry, and innovation-based education and research. It's why we launched the Center for Software Innovation and joined the NextGenAI consortium from OpenAI—bringing additional research grants, funding, and API access to AI-related campus work. But for partnerships like these to grow, we need a mindset shift—within universities and across business and philanthropy. Investors and employers must see the Midwest as a wellspring of ideas, talent, and leadership. More broadly, we must ensure research dollars and economic incentives reach every corner of America. These investments make the United States more resilient and competitive globally while unlocking a wider pool of ideas, perspectives, and solutions. When America invests in our universities, we invest in well-rounded citizens, building social mobility and stability, and research that literally saves lives. We know this from experience. One of us is a Navy airman turned university president. The other, a software entrepreneur turned university benefactor and investor. We've seen how cross-sector leadership can create durable, inclusive growth. But this work can't be piecemeal. We need a national rallying cry to drive how, where, and why we invest in America's future. That future can start in the heartland, if we recognize its potential and act accordingly. The heartland doesn't just hold the key to America's economic future—it holds the promise of a robust economy rooted in community, powered by purpose, and capable of restoring trust in systems meant to serve us all.
Time Business News
2 hours ago
- Time Business News
Prozenith Reviews 2025: The Pink Salt Trick That's Melting Fat Fast!
Official Website: Click Here What is ProZenith? ProZenith is a natural dietary supplement formulated to support effective weight management and overall well-being. It is designed for individuals seeking to enhance their metabolism, increase energy levels, and support fat burning without the use of harsh chemicals or stimulants. By promoting the body's natural ability to burn fat and boost energy, ProZenith helps users achieve and maintain a healthier lifestyle. The supplement is manufactured in FDA-registered and GMP-certified facilities, ensuring its quality and safety. It also supports better mental clarity, digestive health, and immune function. With consistent use and alongside a balanced diet and exercise, ProZenith becomes a reliable ally for anyone on a weight loss or wellness journey. Its plant-based formula makes it a suitable option for those who prefer natural health solutions. Users often report improvements not only in physical performance but also in mood, focus, and daily motivation. The Science Behind ProZenith ProZenith operates on the scientific principle of metabolic enhancement. It helps the body enter a state where fat is used as the primary source of fuel rather than carbohydrates, a process similar to ketosis. This metabolic shift increases energy efficiency and encourages fat loss. Additionally, it supports hormonal balance and appetite regulation, helping reduce unnecessary cravings. This supplement promotes better nutrient absorption and reduces bloating, which further supports the weight loss process. By combining natural compounds known for their holistic benefits, ProZenith addresses various aspects of health to provide a science-backed, safe path to sustainable weight management. Ingredients of ProZenith The ingredients in ProZenith are carefully selected natural compounds known for supporting weight management, energy production, and overall wellness. Each component plays a unique role in promoting metabolism, enhancing fat burning, reducing inflammation, and supporting hormonal balance. Pumpkin Seed Pumpkin seed is renowned for its high antioxidant content and essential fatty acids, which work synergistically to support prostate and urinary health. These nutrients help regulate hormonal balance, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative stress. Regular consumption can lead to improved bladder control and decreased discomfort, enhancing daily comfort and urinary function. Lycopene Lycopene is a potent antioxidant primarily found in tomatoes, celebrated for its ability to neutralize harmful free radicals and prevent cellular damage. This compound contributes significantly to immune system support and reduces inflammation throughout the body. Its protective effects extend to promoting heart health and maintaining a healthy prostate, making it a vital nutrient for overall wellness. Broccoli Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable rich in sulforaphane, a natural compound with powerful detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties. Sulforaphane helps protect cells from damage, supports the body's detoxification pathways, and enhances immune defenses. Additionally, broccoli supports digestive health by improving gut function and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract. Beta Sitosterol Beta Sitosterol is a plant-derived sterol known for its ability to improve urinary flow and support prostate health. It helps maintain balanced cholesterol levels and promotes hormonal equilibrium, which is essential for men experiencing symptoms of an enlarged prostate. Beyond urinary benefits, Beta Sitosterol also supports cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Pygeum Africanum Bark Extracted from the African cherry tree, Pygeum Africanum Bark has a long history in traditional medicine for supporting urinary tract and prostate health. It helps reduce inflammation, ease discomfort during urination, and lessen the frequency of nighttime bathroom visits. Its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties contribute to improved urinary flow and enhanced quality of life. Benefits Accelerated Fat Burning: Helps your body shift into a fat-burning mode by enhancing metabolism, promoting sustainable weight loss. Helps your body shift into a fat-burning mode by enhancing metabolism, promoting sustainable weight loss. Appetite Control: Naturally reduces cravings and supports better portion control to help avoid overeating. Naturally reduces cravings and supports better portion control to help avoid overeating. Increased Energy Levels: Boosts energy without relying on stimulants, helping you stay active and alert throughout the day. Boosts energy without relying on stimulants, helping you stay active and alert throughout the day. Enhanced Mental Clarity: Supports cognitive functions like focus, memory, and motivation—key for staying consistent with health goals. Supports cognitive functions like focus, memory, and motivation—key for staying consistent with health goals. Improved Digestive Health: Aids gut function by reducing bloating and enhancing nutrient absorption for better overall health. Aids gut function by reducing bloating and enhancing nutrient absorption for better overall health. Immune System Support: Strengthens your body's natural defenses to keep you healthier while managing weight. Pros Natural formula Supports weight loss Boosts energy Enhances focus Improves mood Reduces cravings Promotes fat burning Aids digestion Non-GMO and stimulant-free Backed by a money-back guarantee Cons Only available online Not suitable for children Results may vary Requires consistent use How To Use? Take two ProZenith capsules daily with a glass of water, preferably before meals. For best results, follow a consistent routine and support it with a healthy diet and regular physical activity. This helps maximize the supplement's benefits and promotes long-term well-being. Any Side Effects? ProZenith has no side effects when taken as directed, thanks to its natural, non-GMO, plant-based ingredients. Users commonly report increased energy levels and enhanced metabolism without any discomfort or adverse reactions. Its gentle and carefully crafted formula is designed for daily use and is well-tolerated by most individuals. This makes ProZenith a safe and reliable option for those looking to support their health and weight management naturally, without the worry of unwanted side effects or harsh stimulants. Money Back Guarantee ProZenith comes with a 60-day money-back guarantee, giving you the confidence to try it risk-free. If within 60 days you feel the supplement doesn't meet your expectations or you're not satisfied with the results, you can easily request a full refund by contacting customer support. This generous refund policy ensures you have ample time to evaluate the product's effectiveness without any financial worry. With this guarantee, ProZenith offers a worry-free opportunity to invest in your health and well-being, making it a trustworthy choice for those seeking natural support. Pricing & Availability Basic Pack (2 Bottles): $158 + $9.99 Shipping Most Popular (3 Bottles): $207 with Free Shipping Best Value (6 Bottles): $294 with Free Shipping and the biggest savings Where to Buy? ProZenith can be purchased exclusively through its official website. This ensures you're getting the authentic product, complete with quality assurance, secure checkout, and eligibility for bonuses and money-back guarantees. Avoid third-party platforms that may sell counterfeit versions. Buying directly also gives you access to customer support and the latest promotional offers. For your safety and best experience, always purchase from the verified source. Conclusion As an expert, I strongly recommend ProZenith for anyone seeking a natural and effective solution to support weight management and overall wellness. This supplement uses powerful plant-based ingredients that work together to boost metabolism, increase energy, and promote fat burning without harsh chemicals or stimulants. It also enhances mental clarity and supports digestive health, making it ideal for daily use. With regular use, ProZenith helps achieve sustainable results while strengthening the immune system. Supported by positive customer reviews and a 60-day money-back guarantee, it offers a risk-free way to improve your health. If you want a reliable, natural boost to your wellness journey, ProZenith is definitely worth trying. >> (LIMITED SUPPLIES) Click Here to Buy ProstaVive for The Lowest Price Online << TIME BUSINESS NEWS
