Tryptophan Depletion Bioreactor, a New Cancer Therapy

Abstract

The cancer therapeutic strategies known to date are not adequate for all cancer patients. Most of them are followed by a high rate of side effects and complications. The L-tryptophan depletion bioreactor is described as a possible new method of cancer therapy. L-tryptophan is an essential amino acid which has been recognized as an important cancer nutrient and its removal can lead to destruction of the tumour. Normal human cells or tumor cells cannot synthesize L-tryptophan and therefore tumor resistance is unlikely to develop. L-tryptophan is also a constituent for different bio-molecules such as Serotonin, Melatonin, and is needed for other synthesis processes in the cell growth. A column which contained TSO as a bioreactor was integrated in a plasmapheresis unit and tested it in different animals. Brest cancer and medulloblastoma showed the greatest efficacy of L-tryptophan degrading. Tryptophan side chain oxydase (TSO) is developed to treat cancer diseases successfully, and has low side effects. A combination of L-tryptophan depletion with all available cancer therapies is possible.