A recent scientific study has identified taurine as a key regulator of myeloid cancers such as leukemia. Researchers at the Wilmot Cancer Institute found that blocking the growth of leukemia cells by preventing taurine from entering cancer cells may be a potential new avenue for treatment.
Taurine is a naturally occurring amino acid produced in the body and consumed through certain foods, including meats, fish, eggs, and some energy drinks. However, the study discovered that taurine plays a crucial role in promoting the growth of leukemia cells by supporting glycolysis, a process that produces energy for cancer growth.
The researchers used genetic tools to block taurine’s entry into cancer cells, successfully inhibiting the growth of leukemia in mouse models and human leukemia cell samples. The study found that taurine transporter expression is essential for the growth of multiple subtypes of leukemia, including acute myeloid leukemia (AML), chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).
The researchers emphasize that more studies are needed to understand how leukemia cells reprogram their metabolism and how taurine influences this process. However, the study suggests that caution should be exercised when using high-dose taurine supplementation in leukemia patients.
This discovery highlights the importance of understanding the complex interactions between cancer cells and their microenvironment. Further research is necessary to develop effective treatments that target taurine’s role in leukemia growth.
Source: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news/story/a-downside-of-taurine-it-drives-leukemia-growth