We examined how vitamin C (VC) affects prostate cancer cells, particularly those reliant on glutamine for growth. Our study involved both prostate cancer cell lines and mouse models to understand the therapeutic potential of VC in this context.
We discovered that vitamin C has the ability to target an enzyme known as glutamine synthetase (GS), crucial for cancer cell survival. By degrading GS, VC induces oxidative stress, which appears to be detrimental to the cancer cells. We used both traditional lab approaches and more advanced imaging techniques to monitor the treatment's effectiveness, and found a direct correlation between GS levels and the cytotoxic effects of VC.
Not only did our experiments demonstrate that VC boosts the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), but they also revealed that its effects could be mitigated by antioxidants, highlighting its mechanism of action. Particularly compelling were results from the mouse models, where VC treatment showed more pronounced effects in cancer cells overexpressing GS, suggesting a tailored approach to treatment might be effective.
Overall, these findings point to the potential of vitamin C as a novel treatment option for endogenous glutamine-dependent prostate cancers, emphasizing its role in targeting the metabolic pathways vital for tumor cell growth.
Read More
7
Vitamin C may lower prostate cancer risk
The association between vitamin C and breast cancer, prostate cancer and colorectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
We examined the relationship between dietary vitamin C and prostate cancer as part of a systematic review and meta-analysis. The research incorporated data from several studies, focusing on how vitamin C intake might influence the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Within the studies we analyzed, the pooled relative risk (RR) for dietary vitamin C associated with prostate cancer was found to be 0.88. This suggests that higher vitamin C intake might be linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer, indicating a potential protective effect. However, it’s important to note that no significant association was observed between vitamin C supplements and prostate cancer risk, pointing out that dietary sources seem to play a more critical role.
While this outcome appears promising, it’s essential to approach these findings with cautious optimism. More research will be needed to solidify these claims and fully understand the role of vitamin C in cancer prevention. Overall, our findings support the idea that a diet rich in vitamin C may contribute to lowering prostate cancer risk, but further studies are necessary to confirm this connection.
We focused on understanding the potential role of vitamin C in reducing the risk of prostate cancer. As part of our exploration, we noted that studies have shown varying results regarding the effectiveness of vitamin C supplements for this specific type of cancer.
Some research indicated that daily use of vitamin C, along with other antioxidants, appeared to lower the risk of developing prostate cancer among men. Yet, the overall findings have been mixed, with researchers not consistently agreeing on its benefits.
It's important to recognize that while vitamin C has its fans in the world of antioxidants, it hasn’t been definitively proven to be a game-changer for prostate cancer prevention. Consequently, while some men may find value in adding vitamin C to their regimen, it’s essential to do so as part of a well-rounded approach to health.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
10
Life-saving vitamins
After consuming these vitamins, two cancer patients are now leading normal lives. They played a crucial role in their recovery.
Read More
7.5
Immune system support
1 people found this helpful
Excellent Vitamin C! It strengthens the immune system, protects against viruses, and may help in preventing prostate cancer. It's essential for overall health and tissue growth.
Read More
7.5
Effective vegan product
I'm pleased with Now Foods' Crystalline Vitamin C. This vegan powder boosts weak immunity, helps maintain youthful skin, and offers protection against heart attack, stroke, and even prostate cancer.
We explored the effects of vitamin C, specifically high doses of ascorbic acid, on prostate cancer, particularly in cases resistant to standard hormonal treatments. Our focus was to see how ascorbic acid could help inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells by promoting the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).
Along with this, we examined the role of metformin, a medication often used for diabetes, which has shown promise as a mitochondrial respiration inhibitor. By reducing the oxygen consumption of cancer cells, metformin appears to improve oxygen levels in the tumors, potentially making them more responsive to treatment.
Our findings indicated that metformin not only increased the effectiveness of vitamin C by boosting the ROS levels but also inhibited specific cell signaling pathways that promote tumor growth. With this combination, we observed enhanced anti-tumor effects in cancer cells, suggesting that this synergy could represent a novel strategy in cancer treatment.
Overall, our study provides promising insights into how integrating vitamin C with metformin might improve treatment outcomes for prostate cancer patients, signaling a potential path forward in developing more effective cancer therapies.
Read More
9
Vitamin C shows promise in cancer treatment
Pharmacological Vitamin C Treatment Impedes the Growth of Endogenous Glutamine-Dependent Cancers by Targeting Glutamine Synthetase.
We examined how vitamin C (VC) affects prostate cancer cells, particularly those reliant on glutamine for growth. Our study involved both prostate cancer cell lines and mouse models to understand the therapeutic potential of VC in this context.
We discovered that vitamin C has the ability to target an enzyme known as glutamine synthetase (GS), crucial for cancer cell survival. By degrading GS, VC induces oxidative stress, which appears to be detrimental to the cancer cells. We used both traditional lab approaches and more advanced imaging techniques to monitor the treatment's effectiveness, and found a direct correlation between GS levels and the cytotoxic effects of VC.
Not only did our experiments demonstrate that VC boosts the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), but they also revealed that its effects could be mitigated by antioxidants, highlighting its mechanism of action. Particularly compelling were results from the mouse models, where VC treatment showed more pronounced effects in cancer cells overexpressing GS, suggesting a tailored approach to treatment might be effective.
Overall, these findings point to the potential of vitamin C as a novel treatment option for endogenous glutamine-dependent prostate cancers, emphasizing its role in targeting the metabolic pathways vital for tumor cell growth.
We focused on understanding the potential role of vitamin C in reducing the risk of prostate cancer. As part of our exploration, we noted that studies have shown varying results regarding the effectiveness of vitamin C supplements for this specific type of cancer.
Some research indicated that daily use of vitamin C, along with other antioxidants, appeared to lower the risk of developing prostate cancer among men. Yet, the overall findings have been mixed, with researchers not consistently agreeing on its benefits.
It's important to recognize that while vitamin C has its fans in the world of antioxidants, it hasn’t been definitively proven to be a game-changer for prostate cancer prevention. Consequently, while some men may find value in adding vitamin C to their regimen, it’s essential to do so as part of a well-rounded approach to health.
Read More
8
Prooxidant therapy shows promise
Reactivation of nucleases with peroxidation damages induced by a menadione: ascorbate combination devastates human prostate carcinomas: ultrastructural aspects.
We explored the potential benefits of a combination treatment involving vitamin C (sodium ascorbate) and menadione bisulfite on human prostate cancer. In our study, we examined xenografts of DU145 prostate metastatic cancer implanted in male mice. The results indicated that this prooxidant therapy led to significant structural damage in the cancer cells without harming surrounding normal tissues.
The treatment appeared to induce stress within the cancer cells, causing them to experience significant destruction. Using advanced microscopy, we observed that the cellular structures—the nucleus, mitochondria, and even the cytoskeleton—suffered irreversible damage. This process was characterized by a type of cell death known as necrosis, linked to reactivated nucleases that lead to oxidative stress.
Overall, while our study suggests that the VK3:VC combination could potentially aid in the treatment of prostate cancer, we also noted that a further separate assessment of vitamin C's sole effectiveness was not conducted. Nonetheless, this research supports the concept that combining these substances could devastate prostate cancer cells, paving the way for future studies.
Read More
8
Vitamin C shows promise for CRPC
PARP inhibition and pharmacological ascorbate demonstrate synergy in castration-resistant prostate cancer.
We explored the effectiveness of vitamin C, or ascorbate, in treating castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) alongside poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors. The study aimed at investigating new therapies for CRPC, a challenging stage of prostate cancer where conventional treatments often fall short.
Vitamin C has shown selective toxicity to various cancer cells, suggesting it could be a potential treatment option. When administered at physiological levels, vitamin C led to the death of CRPC cells while causing notable DNA damage. Additionally, it disrupted cellular energy dynamics, which appears to contribute to its anti-cancer effects.
The exciting part of our findings is that combining vitamin C with PARP inhibitors seemed to enhance the treatment’s effectiveness. By impairing the cancer cells’ ability to repair DNA damage, PARP inhibitors appeared to amplify the deadly impact of vitamin C on CRPC growth.
In summary, these results indicate that vitamin C alone is a viable treatment for CRPC and highlight the potential benefits of integrating it with PARP inhibitors for improved patient outcomes.
After consuming these vitamins, two cancer patients are now leading normal lives. They played a crucial role in their recovery.
Read More
7.5
Immune system support
1 people found this helpful
Excellent Vitamin C! It strengthens the immune system, protects against viruses, and may help in preventing prostate cancer. It's essential for overall health and tissue growth.
Read More
7.5
Effective vegan product
I'm pleased with Now Foods' Crystalline Vitamin C. This vegan powder boosts weak immunity, helps maintain youthful skin, and offers protection against heart attack, stroke, and even prostate cancer.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the prostate, a small gland that produces seminal fluid and is located below the bladder in men. This disease is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of prostate cells. While it can grow slowly and may not show significant symptoms in its early stages, prostate cancer can sometimes be aggressive, spreading to nearby tissues or even to distant organs. According to the American Cancer Society, it is one of the most common types of cancer among men, second only to skin cancer. Risk factors include age, family history, and race, with African American men being at a higher risk.
Screening for prostate cancer often involves a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test or a digital rectal exam (DRE), which can help detect abnormalities in the prostate. If diagnosed, treatment options may vary depending on the stage of the cancer and can include watchful waiting, surgery, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, or chemotherapy. It's crucial for individuals diagnosed with prostate cancer to discuss the potential benefits and risks of each treatment option with their healthcare provider to determine the best course of action tailored to their specific situation.
Ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C, is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for various bodily functions, including the synthesis of collagen, the absorption of iron, and the maintenance of a healthy immune system. Found naturally in a variety of fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi, and bell peppers, it serves as a potent antioxidant, helping to protect cells from damage by free radicals. Given that the human body cannot synthesize ascorbic acid on its own, it must be obtained through diet or supplementation.
In addition to its fundamental role in supporting overall health, ascorbic acid has garnered interest for its potential benefits in skincare and wound healing. Topical applications of vitamin C can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin texture, making it a popular ingredient in various cosmetic formulations. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in the body's ability to repair tissues and produce important neurotransmitters. For those looking to boost their vitamin C intake, incorporating a variety of vitamin C-rich foods into your diet or considering a supplement can be effective strategies.
Vitamin C has garnered attention for its potential role in prostate cancer treatment and prevention based on a series of studies. A detailed meta-analysis suggested that dietary vitamin C might be associated with a lower risk of developing prostate cancer, indicating a possible protective effect. However, this benefit appears to be more relevant to dietary sources rather than supplements. The research showed a pooled relative risk of 0.88 for dietary vitamin C linked to prostate cancer, emphasizing the need for more definitive studies to clarify this role [2].
When it comes to clinical implications, findings from various studies point toward mixed effectiveness of vitamin C as a standalone treatment or in combination therapies for prostate cancer. For instance, high-dose intravenous vitamin C did not enhance the treatment benefits when used with docetaxel for advanced forms of prostate cancer [7]. While some research indicates that vitamin C may show promise when partnered with agents like curcumin or menadione, the evidence supporting its isolated effectiveness remains limited [5][6]. Therefore, while vitamin C presents potential avenues for further exploration in prostate cancer care, it is not yet conclusively supported as an effective standalone treatment.
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in their overall health and specific symptoms after using these vitamins. For instance, two cancer patients noted that after incorporating these vitamins into their regimen, they were able to return to leading normal lives, highlighting a potentially positive impact on recovery during critical health challenges Read Review.
Other users have emphasized the role of Vitamin C in strengthening the immune system and preventing illnesses. One reviewer mentioned that the vitamin not only supports immune function but also helps in tissue growth and may play a role in prostate cancer prevention Read Review. Additionally, another user appreciated the benefits of Now Foods’ Crystalline Vitamin C, noting its effectiveness in boosting weak immunity, maintaining youthful skin, and offering cardiovascular protection Read Review. These experiences suggest that while individual results can vary, there are encouraging anecdotal reports of improved symptoms and overall health from these vitamin users.
Users have reported various positive outcomes when combining this supplement with other products to manage prostate cancer. For instance, reviewers noted that certain vitamins played a crucial role in their recovery from cancer, allowing them to return to normal lives. These observations emphasize the benefits of a holistic approach to health, where the synergy of multiple supplements may enhance overall well-being during recovery challenges Read Review.
Particularly, Vitamin C has been highlighted for its immune-boosting properties and potential role in preventing prostate cancer. Users expressed satisfaction with supplements like Now Foods’ Crystalline Vitamin C, citing its effectiveness in enhancing immune function and supporting overall health. This suggests that a combination of Vitamin C along with other vitamins could be beneficial for those seeking to manage prostate cancer actively Read Review, Read Review.
10
Life-saving vitamins
After consuming these vitamins, two cancer patients are now leading normal lives. They played a crucial role in their recovery.
7.5
Immune system support
1 people found this helpful
Excellent Vitamin C! It strengthens the immune system, protects against viruses, and may help in preventing prostate cancer. It's essential for overall health and tissue growth.
7.5
Effective vegan product
I'm pleased with Now Foods' Crystalline Vitamin C. This vegan powder boosts weak immunity, helps maintain youthful skin, and offers protection against heart attack, stroke, and even prostate cancer.
7
Vitamin C may lower prostate cancer risk
The association between vitamin C and breast cancer, prostate cancer and colorectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis.
We examined the relationship between dietary vitamin C and prostate cancer as part of a systematic review and meta-analysis. The research incorporated data from several studies, focusing on how vitamin C intake might influence the risk of developing prostate cancer.
Within the studies we analyzed, the pooled relative risk (RR) for dietary vitamin C associated with prostate cancer was found to be 0.88. This suggests that higher vitamin C intake might be linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer, indicating a potential protective effect. However, it’s important to note that no significant association was observed between vitamin C supplements and prostate cancer risk, pointing out that dietary sources seem to play a more critical role.
While this outcome appears promising, it’s essential to approach these findings with cautious optimism. More research will be needed to solidify these claims and fully understand the role of vitamin C in cancer prevention. Overall, our findings support the idea that a diet rich in vitamin C may contribute to lowering prostate cancer risk, but further studies are necessary to confirm this connection.
3
HDIVC not beneficial for mCRPC
High-Dose Intravenous Vitamin C Combined with Docetaxel in Men with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Phase II Trial.
We conducted a clinical trial to explore the effects of high-dose intravenous vitamin C (HDIVC) when used alongside the chemotherapy drug docetaxel in men suffering from metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 47 patients were randomly assigned to receive either HDIVC or a placebo while getting treated with docetaxel.
Our goal was to see if adding HDIVC could improve treatment responses, specifically the PSA50 response rate, overall survival, and progression-free survival. Unfortunately, the results indicated that the combination of HDIVC and docetaxel did not provide any significant benefits. The PSA response rate was similar in both groups, with 41% for HDIVC and 33% for the placebo, and there were no notable differences in adverse events or quality-of-life measures.
Additionally, we noted that the median overall survival rates were actually longer in the placebo group. With findings showing no significant impact on any of the primary or secondary outcomes, we concluded that using HDIVC in this context does not enhance treatment efficacy for mCRPC. Therefore, routine use of high-dose vitamin C for this type of cancer is not recommended outside of clinical trials.
4
Vitamin C's role in prostate cancer
Anti-Cancer Properties of Two Intravenously Administrable Curcumin Formulations as Evaluated in the 3D Patient-Derived Cancer Spheroid Model.
We explored how Vitamin C, when combined with two curcumin formulations, affects prostate cancer treatment. In a study involving 82 patient-derived cancer spheroids, curcumin showed significant cancer-fighting potential. The formulations tested (CurA and CurB) exhibited inhibitory effects, particularly in prostate cancer, where CurA performed better in younger and older patients.
However, when looking specifically at the combination therapies that included Vitamin C, we found that curcumin formulations were more effective with agents like Artesunate, Resveratrol, and Vitamin C in about half of the samples. This indicates a potential for improved efficacy when these compounds work together, but it doesn't isolate Vitamin C's effect on prostate cancer nor guarantee its benefits across the board.
Overall, while the study does suggest a beneficial interaction when Vitamin C is combined with other treatments, there isn't enough evidence to claim Vitamin C alone shows a significant effect on prostate cancer. Therefore, individual testing and personalized approaches seem necessary for optimal treatment outcomes.
8
Prooxidant therapy shows promise
Reactivation of nucleases with peroxidation damages induced by a menadione: ascorbate combination devastates human prostate carcinomas: ultrastructural aspects.
We explored the potential benefits of a combination treatment involving vitamin C (sodium ascorbate) and menadione bisulfite on human prostate cancer. In our study, we examined xenografts of DU145 prostate metastatic cancer implanted in male mice. The results indicated that this prooxidant therapy led to significant structural damage in the cancer cells without harming surrounding normal tissues.
The treatment appeared to induce stress within the cancer cells, causing them to experience significant destruction. Using advanced microscopy, we observed that the cellular structures—the nucleus, mitochondria, and even the cytoskeleton—suffered irreversible damage. This process was characterized by a type of cell death known as necrosis, linked to reactivated nucleases that lead to oxidative stress.
Overall, while our study suggests that the VK3:VC combination could potentially aid in the treatment of prostate cancer, we also noted that a further separate assessment of vitamin C's sole effectiveness was not conducted. Nonetheless, this research supports the concept that combining these substances could devastate prostate cancer cells, paving the way for future studies.
References
Deme S, Ramezani I, Coulter J, Paller C, Bressler J. Effects of hypoxia and iron on ascorbic acid-mediated cytotoxicity in prostate cancer cell lines. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol. 2025;497:117259. 10.1016/j.taap.2025.117259
Arshadi M, Ghazal N, Ghavidel F, Beygi Z, Nasiri Z, et al. The association between vitamin C and breast cancer, prostate cancer and colorectal cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Clin Nutr ESPEN. 2025;65:400. 10.1016/j.clnesp.2024.12.001
Matei E, Ionescu AC, Enciu M, Popovici V, Mitroi AF, et al. Cell death and DNA damage via ROS mechanisms after applied antibiotics and antioxidants doses in prostate hyperplasia primary cell cultures. Medicine (Baltimore). 2024;103:e39450. 10.1097/MD.0000000000039450
Alsulami FJ, Shaheed SU. Role of Natural Antioxidants in Cancer. Cancer Treat Res. 2024;191:95. 10.1007/978-3-031-55622-7_4
Niederreiter M, Klein J, Schmitz SBM, Werner J, Mayer B. Anti-Cancer Properties of Two Intravenously Administrable Curcumin Formulations as Evaluated in the 3D Patient-Derived Cancer Spheroid Model. Int J Mol Sci. 2024;25. 10.3390/ijms25158543
Gilloteaux J, Jamison JM, Summers JL, Taper HS. Reactivation of nucleases with peroxidation damages induced by a menadione: ascorbate combination devastates human prostate carcinomas: ultrastructural aspects. Ultrastruct Pathol. 2024;48:378. 10.1080/01913123.2024.2379300
Paller CJ, Zahurak ML, Mandl A, Metri NA, Lalji A, et al. High-Dose Intravenous Vitamin C Combined with Docetaxel in Men with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Phase II Trial. Cancer Res Commun. 2024;4:2174. 10.1158/2767-9764.CRC-24-0225
Gordon N, Gallagher PT, Neupane NP, Mandigo AC, McCann JK, et al. PARP inhibition and pharmacological ascorbate demonstrate synergy in castration-resistant prostate cancer. bioRxiv. 2023. 10.1101/2023.03.23.533944
Qiu J, Yang T, Long Y, He P, Shen W, et al. Mitochondrial respiration inhibitor enhances the anti-tumor effect of high-dose ascorbic acid in castration-resistant prostate cancer. J Mol Med (Berl). 2023;101:125. 10.1007/s00109-022-02273-5
Qi J, Shi Y, Tan Y, Zhang Q, Zhang J, et al. Regional gain and global loss of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine coexist in genitourinary cancers and regulate different oncogenic pathways. Clin Epigenetics. 2022;14:117. 10.1186/s13148-022-01333-4
Li Z, He P, Long Y, Yuan G, Shen W, et al. Drug Repurposing of Pantoprazole and Vitamin C Targeting Tumor Microenvironment Conditions Improves Anticancer Effect in Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer. Front Oncol. 2021;11:660320. 10.3389/fonc.2021.660320
Amiri A, Abbasi A, Dehghani M, Ramezani A, Ramezani F, et al. New perspectives of quercetin and vitamin C effects on fibronectin-binding integrins and chemokine receptors in prostate cancer cell lines. Bratisl Lek Listy. 2021;122:507. 10.4149/BLL_2021_082
Long Y, Qiu J, Zhang B, He P, Shi X, et al. Pharmacological Vitamin C Treatment Impedes the Growth of Endogenous Glutamine-Dependent Cancers by Targeting Glutamine Synthetase. Front Pharmacol. 2021;12:671902. 10.3389/fphar.2021.671902
Jafari E, Ahmadzadehfar H, Bagheri D, Amini A, Assadi M. Assessment of early oxidative stress following the use of radiotheranostics agents 177Lu-PSMA for prostate cancer and 177Lu-DOTATATE for neuroendocrine tumors; radioprotective effect of vitamin C. Nucl Med Commun. 2021;42:325. 10.1097/MNM.0000000000001327