Two recent review papers highlight the potential of deuterium-depleted water (DDW) in cancer therapy, suggesting it can regulate cell division and cancer growth. The papers, assessing almost 200 studies, indicate that DDW inhibits tumor cell proliferation and suppresses cancer cell migration, a key factor in metastasis. These findings suggest a novel approach to cancer treatment by targeting the role of deuterium in cellular processes.
Mechanisms of Action
The proposed mechanism involves the isotopic properties of hydrogen (H) and deuterium (D). Deuterium, with an extra neutron, forms stronger bonds than hydrogen. In cellular processes like sodium/hydrogen exchange, hydrogen is preferentially eliminated, leading to deuterium accumulation within cells. When the deuterium concentration exceeds a threshold (150 ppm), it can trigger cell division.
Mitochondrial dysfunction in tumor cells exacerbates this accumulation. Healthy mitochondria naturally produce deuterium-depleted metabolic water, maintaining deuterium levels below the critical threshold. However, in cancer cells, the mitochondrial TCA cycle is inhibited, impairing this deuterium-depleting function.
Clinical Evidence
In a Phase 2 double-blind, randomized trial, 44 prostate cancer patients undergoing conventional therapy were divided into two groups: one receiving DDW and the other a placebo, for four months. The DDW group exhibited a significantly greater reduction in prostate size, averaging 160cm3 compared to 54cm3 in the placebo group. Furthermore, the one-year survival rate was higher in the DDW group (20 out of 22) compared to the placebo group (13 out of 22).
Future Directions
HYD LLC for Cancer Research and Drug Development is seeking investors and pharmaceutical partners to conduct a pivotal Phase II/III clinical study. This study would focus on tumors such as glioblastoma, lung cancer, breast cancer, or prostate cancer. Positive results could pave the way for regulatory approval of DDW as a cancer treatment.
Expert Commentary
Gábor Somlyai, CEO and founder of HYD, stated, "We are on the cusp of a significant breakthrough in cancer therapy that adopts a novel, first-in-class approach based in quantum physics, rather than the traditional biology or chemistry... While there is clear evidence of DDW treating cancer as a stand-alone modality, we envisage its application to enhance the efficacy of cancer treatment in combination with other therapies."
