IP6 & Inositol in Cancer Prevention and Therapy

Abstract

Inositol and its phosphorylated form - inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) are naturally occurring carbohydrates, abundantly found in certain high-fiber diets, such as cereals and legumes. They, as well as other inositol phosphates with fewer phosphate groups (IP1-5) are contained in almost all mammalian cells, although in much smaller amounts, where they are important in regulating vital cellular functions. A striking anticancer action of IP6 was demonstrated in different experimental models. Although inositol possesses a modest anticancer activity, the most consistent and best anticancer results were obtained from the combination of Inositol + IP6. In addition to reducing cell proliferation, IP6 increases differentiation of malignant cells, often resulting in reversion to normal phenotype with decreasing production of tumor markers such as CEA, PSAP, and AFP. Exogenously administered IP6 is rapidly taken into the cells and dephosphorylated to lower inositol phosphates, which further affect signal transduction pathways resulting in cell cycle arrest. Enhanced immunity and antioxidant properties also contribute to tumor cell destruction. Because it is abundantly present in regular diet, efficiently absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, and safe, Inositol + IP6 holds great promise in our strategies for both prevention and therapy of cancer. Inositol + IP6 enhances the anticancer effect of conventional chemotherapy, controls cancer metastases, and improves the quality of life, as shown in pilot clinical studies. Emerging clinical and rather vast amount of laboratory data accumulated so far strongly suggest its role either as an adjuvant or as an