How Oncologists View IP6 Treatment for Cancer

IP6, also known as inositol hexaphosphate, occurs in high-fiber foods, such as legumes and whole grains. Oncology researchers find that diets high in IP6 result in fewer incidences of certain cancers than diets low in IP6, according to the University of Colorado Hospital.

Considerations

• Cancer cells in petri dishes stop growing when treated with IP6, according to Dr. Rajesh Agarwal of the University of Colorado School of Pharmacy. Animal studies also show positive results in stopping cancer growth using IP6. Oncology researchers observe fewer cases of colon, breast and prostate cancers in individuals who regularly eat foods rich in IP6.

Function

• IP6 triggers apoptosis, or cell death, in cancer cells. Additionally, it inhibits the growth of cancer cells during stages of the cell cycle. IP6 significantly alters the function of the P13K-Akt pathway, which is responsible for producing certain types of cancer.

Potential

• According to oncology researchers with the University of Colorado Cancer Center, human studies are the next step in IP6 cancer research. Clinical trials will examine the effect IP6 has in prostate cancer treatment. Researchers hope that this nontoxic substance will successfully reduce cancerous tumors.