A Common Gym Supplement May Give Cancer-Fighting Cells an Energy Boost

New research from the University of California, Los Angeles suggests a common gym supplement may play a role in fighting cancer. Scientists found that creatine, widely used to assist muscle performance, acts as an energy source for dendritic cells in addition to its known effects on T cells.

Dendritic cells act as the supervisors of the immune system. They locate tumor fragments and instruct killer T cells where to attack. Without enough energy, these cells struggle to function, which leaves the body vulnerable to tumor growth. Researchers observed that these cells pull in creatine to maintain their output, essentially using it as a backup battery for their demanding tasks.

The study, published in iScience, used human cells and mouse models to test this effect. In models of melanoma, increased creatine intake slowed tumor growth and increased the number of active dendritic cells. This is important because current immunotherapies are successful for only a fraction of patients. By supporting the infrastructure that guides the immune response, creatine could assist in making these treatments more effective.

While these results are promising, experts warn that patients should not begin taking creatine supplements without medical supervision. Much of the current data comes from lab cells and mice, and clinical trials are necessary to determine safe and effective dosing for humans. Future studies aim to see if adding creatine to existing immunotherapy regimens improves outcomes. Because creatine is inexpensive and already widely used, successful human trials could provide a straightforward path to improving cancer care outcomes.