The prospects of vitamin C in cancer therapy
- PMID: 20157602
- PMCID: PMC2816948
- DOI: 10.4110/in.2009.9.5.147
The prospects of vitamin C in cancer therapy
Abstract
Ascorbate (vitamin C) is a cofactor for a number of metabolic enzymes and is an indisputable essential vitamin C for humans. However, the potential of ascorbate as an anticancer agent has been a topic of controversy. A number of previous reports have addressed both positive aspects and limitations of ascorbate in cancer therapy. In this review, we briefly summarize the potential antitumor effects of ascorbate and its prospects for clinical use.
Keywords: antioxidant; ascorbate; ascorbic acid; cancer; chemotherapy; cytotoxicity; intravenous; prooxidant; tumor growth; vitamin C.
Conflict of interest statement
The authors have no financial conflict of interest.
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