A UCLA study has found that creatine can enhance the function of dendritic cells, which help activate killer T cells to fight tumors. The research, conducted in mice and human cells, points to potential uses in improving cancer immunotherapy.
Experiments showed that dendritic cells inside tumors rely on creatine uptake to survive and stay active. When researchers blocked the creatine transporter in these cells, they became less effective at preparing T cells to attack cancer.
In mouse models of melanoma, daily creatine injections slowed tumor growth and increased both the number and activity of tumor-infiltrating dendritic cells. The supplement also raised ATP levels inside the cells, giving them more energy to support immune signaling.
Laboratory tests with human cells produced similar results. Creatine improved activation of monocyte-derived dendritic cells and strengthened their ability to stimulate T cells against cancer targets.
"Creatine doesn't just help the T cells fighting cancer -- it also energizes the entire infrastructure supports and guides them," said Lili Yang, the study's senior author. The team noted that human clinical trials are still required before any recommendations can be made.
