View the original issue on The Lancet Oncology Vol 5 July 2004 issue Click here to view

 

Understanding Antineoplastons: A Potential Cancer Therapy?

Antineoplastons are a type of experimental cancer treatment pioneered by Dr. S.R. Burzynski. These drugs are composed of chemical compounds already present in small amounts within our urine and blood. They hold the potential to fight cancer using natural substances already present in the body.

What are Antineoplastons Made Of?

Antineoplastons are a complex mixture. Chemically, they are a blend of amino acids, peptides, and amino acid derivatives – all naturally occurring components found in human blood and urine. Initially, Dr. Burzynski and his team isolated these compounds directly from blood. Today, they can also be synthesized in a lab setting.

The Theory Behind Antineoplastons

The developers of antineoplaston therapy, led by Dr. Burzynski, believe these compounds act as a natural "cellular switch" within the body. They propose that cancer arises when abnormal cells fail to differentiate properly, meaning they don't develop into healthy, specialized cells. According to this theory, antineoplastons may help "switch" these abnormal cells back onto the normal differentiation pathway.

Cancer patients, according to this theory, may lack sufficient levels of antineoplastons, allowing abnormal cells to multiply unchecked. The goal of antineoplaston therapy is to restore these natural biochemical controls and promote normal cell development.

How Antineoplastons Might Work

Several theories exist on how antineoplastons might combat cancer cells:

• DNA Disruption: Antineoplastons may interact with a cell's DNA, potentially interfering with carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) from attaching and causing damage.
• Disrupting Cell Growth: Antineoplastons might compete with a substance called glutamine, which cancer cells need for growth. This competition could limit the cancer cells' ability to divide and multiply.
• Impacting Cell Development: Certain components of antineoplastons, like phenylacetic acid, may influence how genetic material functions within cancer cells. This influence could potentially promote their differentiation into normal cells or prevent further tumor growth.

Overall, the concept behind antineoplaston therapy focuses on harnessing the body's natural mechanisms to prevent and control tumor development.