Researchers discovered that a substance found in sore throat medications such as Strepsil® or Humex® was able to destroy cancer cells in some types of cancer.
that it A promising discovery in the field of cancer. This was shown by researchers from the University of Pennsylvania (USA). LidocaineA substance found in some medications To treat sore throat Like the Strepsil® or Humex Sore Throat® It can be useful in some patients with head and neck cancer, Including Those associated with papillomavirus (HPV). Concretely, lidocaine would have the potential to do thisActivating some bitter taste receptors (It is called T2R14), which would limit tumor proliferation and lead to Apoptosisin other words, Cancer cell deathCan we read the study published in the magazine? Cell reports On November 22, 2023. There are mainly “bitter” taste receptors In the cells of the oral cavity and pharynxwhich is changed in patients with head and neck cancer.
Today this material is already being used anesthetic In outpatient medical procedures but is also administered by Muscular pathOr subcutaneously or epidurally (via the fatty space of the spinal canal) To relieve pain In patients with cancer. But if its benefits are confirmed (further clinical trials on humans are necessary), the matter will be over Lidocaine may also be used Such as cancer prevention or “It could have therapeutic potential in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck In the form of a topical gel Or dIntraoral injection“Researchers hope. “We know that lidocaine is safewe feel comfortable using it and it is readily available, meaning it can be seamlessly integrated into other aspects of head and neck cancer care“, confirms Ryan Carey, head and neck surgeon and co-author of the study.
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Squamous cell carcinomas occur in the head and neck The mucous membrane of the oral cavity, nose, larynx and pharynx, resulting from exposure to environmental carcinogens (tobacco, alcohol) and/or human papillomavirus (HPV) in France,It is the fifth most common type of cancer with more than 15,000 new cases every year and the mortality rate is 50% over 5 years. This high mortality rate is partly due to late diagnosis and the absence of screening and preventive screening High rates of metastasis. These cancers worry Men are two to three times more likely Women, especially smokers.
- Lidocaine induces apoptosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma through activation of T2R14 bitter taste receptors Cell Reports
