Study Warns Vitamin B3 Supplements May Aid Cancer Cell Survival, Impacting Chemotherapy
A recent study from Case Western Reserve University’s School of Medicine, published in Cancer Letters, has raised concerns about the use of vitamin B3 supplements, specifically nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), nicotinamide riboside (NR), and nicotinamide (NAM), in cancer treatment. These supplements are popular for boosting energy and supporting healthy aging by increasing levels of NAD+, a molecule crucial for metabolism and cellular repair. However, the study suggests that these supplements may inadvertently aid pancreatic cancer cells in surviving chemotherapy. Pancreatic cancer, known for its low five-year survival rate of 13%, poses significant treatment challenges, and any factor that affects treatment efficacy is critical. The research indicates that NAD+ supplements can enhance cancer cell energy, reduce oxidative stress, and limit DNA damage, thereby making tumors more resistant to chemotherapy.