Creatine May Bolster Cancer-Fighting Immunity, Early Lab Results Suggest

A UCLA-led study found that creatine supports dendritic cells, which activate T cells to attack cancer. Creatine transport into cells increases energy (ATP); creatine deficiency impaired dendritic cell activity and T-cell responses in mice. In mice, daily creatine injections slowed tumor growth and boosted dendritic cell infiltration; in human cells, creatine enhanced dendritic cell activation and their ability to stimulate T cells against cancer targets. The researchers propose creatine could augment immunotherapies and improve dendritic cell–based vaccines, but caution that results are early and human effects are not yet proven; consult doctors before starting any supplement.