Vanadium: Possible Use in Cancer Chemoprevention and Therapy
Pages 97-102
Ladislav Novotny and Samuel B. Kombian

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.6000/1929-2279.2014.03.02.3

Published: 08 May 2013

Abstract: Vanadium belongs among the microelements and plays a role in human nutrition. However, it is not regarded as an essential micronutrient. Vanadium affects various biochemical processes and when present in the body, it is capable of interacting with a notable number of enzymes e.g. protein kinases, phosphatases, ATPases, peroxidases, ribonucleases, oxidoreductases and others. It is documented in scientific literature that vanadium takes part in biochemical processes in mammals. Vanadium is not carcinogenic but its presence in cancer cells and its interactions with many key enzymatic processes results in modified expression of p53 and Bax and in down regulation of Bcl2 proteins and in antiproliferative activity. Anti-carcinogenic and anticancer effects of vanadium in various forms have been demonstrated using in vitro and in vivo experiments. Presently, epidemiologic and clinical studies are necessary for developing a clinically useful, vanadium-based anticancer agent/drug for chemoprevention of cancer. This review summarizes recent scientific information on the role and potential use of vanadium in cancer chemoprevention and cancer therapy.