An ingredient in energy drinks fuels leukemia cells

energy drinks fuels leukemia cells

 A popular ingredient in energy drinks fuels leukemia cells

A study has shown that a common ingredient in energy drinks is linked to the development of leukemia, prompting researchers to warn against excessive consumption of these beverages.

The study, conducted by a team from the Wilmot Cancer Institute at the University of Rochester and published in the journal Nature, revealed that taurine, a common acid found in energy drinks such as Red Bull and Celsius, may contribute to fueling leukemia cells and promoting their growth.

Leukemia cells were found to absorb taurine and use it as an energy source through a process known as glycolysis, where glucose is broken down in cells to produce the energy needed for division and reproduction, according to the British newspaper The Independent.

Naturally found in proteins

Taurine, an amino acid found naturally in proteins such as meat and fish, is a common ingredient in popular energy drinks. It can help maintain fluid, salt, and mineral balance. The study indicates that cancer cells in mice fed taurine: "Taurine supplements can significantly accelerate disease progression in immune-normal mice, suggesting that taurine may promote the development of leukemia."

Notably, taurine has sometimes been used to alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy for leukemia patients. However, the study warns that excessive taurine intake, particularly through supplements and energy drinks, may provide cancer cells with "extra fuel," contributing to disease progression. The researchers call for a re-evaluation of taurine use, particularly in patients with leukemia or those who regularly consume energy drinks, given its easy availability and widespread availability.

Although the results are still preliminary and require further research, the study team believes that reducing taurine uptake in cancer cells may open the door to promising treatment options. The researchers are also currently investigating the potential relationship between taurine and other types of cancer, such as colorectal cancer.