SARS-CoV-2

The recent COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2, has affected tens of millions of people, and caused more than 1 million deaths worldwide. It affected our way of life and global economies with wide socio- and psychological outcomes.

The US Food and Drug Administration has been under constant pressure to approve new therapies including novel vaccines. Although effective treatments of this infection are urgently needed many people are concerned about their adequate testing including long-term side effects and clinical efficacy before they are widely applied to the public.

This situation also calls for increasing public understanding of the body’s immune system function, the ways SARS-CoV-2 infects cells in the body and whether there are effective and safe natural means to prevent and control this infection.

Our scientific studies demonstrate wide benefits of micronutrients against SARS-CoV-2 by their simultaneous inhibitory effects on key mechanisms of the coronavirus infection. These include the almost complete blocking of the coronavirus binding to ACE2 receptors which are the gateway for the coronavirus to enter the human cells. The micronutrients when used in specific combinations can also decrease the expression of ACE2 receptors in cells and affect other important mechanisms of this virus infectivity. Our unique approach is based on investigating the synergistic interactions of various micronutrients which when properly combined can simultaneously affect multiple cellular processes used by the virus. This creates the basis for comprehensive control of the viral infection with high efficacy and safety.

 

Relevant publications:

  1. Ivanov V, Ivanova S, Niedzwiecki A, Rath M. Effective and safe global public health strategy to fight the COVID-19 pandemic: Specific micronutrient composition inhibits Coronavirus cell-entry receptor (ACE2) expression J. Cellular Medicine and Natural Health 2020, July
  2. Goc A, Sumera W, Ivanov V, Niedzwiecki A, Rath M. Micronutrient combination inhibits two key steps of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) infection: viral binding to ACE2 receptor and its cellular expression. J. Cellular Medicine and Natural Health 2020, August
  3. Sumera W, Goc A, Niedzwiecki A, Rath M. The micronutrient combination with immune-enhancing effects. J. Cellular Medicine and Natural Health 2020, Aug

Borreliosis / Lyme Disease

Overview

Lyme disease (LD), also called Borreliosis or Lyme borreliosis, is a zoonosis, i.e., a bacterial infection transmitted by ticks. It was first recognized in 1975 in Old Lyme, Connecticut, USA, however, reports of it can be found in medical literature in Europe as early as 1883. Statistics confirm that LD has become the most common arthropod-borne (vector-borne) illness in the U.S. (~30,000 reported cases each year) and Europe (~65-80,000 cases reported each year). Its occurrence has been documented on all continents except Antarctica.

Causes: LD is caused by the bacterium of genus Borrelia that is harbored in ticks. In 1981 Willy Burgdorfer established that a particular species Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, a type of bacterium called a spirochete (pronounced spy-ro-keet) is responsible for LD. Borrelia can be found frequently in small and large mammals, birds and reptiles on which many ticks feed and mate making them prone to become infected with the bacterial spirochete. An infected tick may then transmit these bacteria to another host such as humans and/or animals by biting them. Some studies have shown that in order to transmit the spirochete an infected tick (also known as the black-legged tick) needs to be attached to the host for 36-48 hours, however, other studies show that attachment of 24-48 hours can be already sufficient. The ticks that spread LD can sometimes co-transmit other tick-borne pathogens such as: Ehrlichia spp., Babesia spp., Bartonella spp., and others.

Diagnosis: LD is diagnosed based on the symptoms described by a patient, such as flu-like symptoms (including fever, headache, and fatigue), physical signs (e.g., rash and swollen areas on the body), and the results of laboratory testing. Because the symptoms of LD can be diverse and mimic other diseases, and laboratory tests are still not 100% reliable, the diagnosis and treatment quite often represents a challenge for clinicians. Untreated LD allows the dissemination of the bacterium through the bloodstream to various body tissues and can lead to developing arthritis, meningitis, inflammation of the brain and heart and others.

Treatment: It is commonly perceived that treatment with appropriate antibiotics at the early stages of the disease assures successful recovery. However, at the later stages of LD the response to antibiotic treatment may not be successful leading to a persistent (chronic) form of this illness. LD treatment still faces many challenges as the rate of disease progression and the patient’s response to treatment may vary due to individual predispositions, immune system efficacy, and the very effective survival/adaptive strategies of Borrelia sp.

Prevention: You can protect yourself against LD by using insect repellents, tick eliminating kits, and wearing proper clothing when accessing any wooded areas/parks, and afterwards examining yourself and your pets. Always remove any ticks noticed on your skin as quickly as possible and be alert for any signs of a red rash, inflammation, and/or swollen areas on your body. There are no known pharmacological treatments to prevent this disease.

Natural approach: In a continuous search for effective therapy for LD patients and animals, the use of natural, non-toxic treatment still remains an unexplored area. The Cellular Health approach and research strategies are based on simultaneously targeting the genesis of LD (i.e., by eliminating all diverse forms of Borrelia sp.) as well as the symptoms affiliated with it (i.e., inflammation and abnormal levels of body biomarkers, electrolytes, vitamins, microelements, hormones, etc.) through the application of a specific synergistic team of micronutrients (phytobiologicals such as vitamins, nutrients, and phytochemicals). It opens up new possibilities for safe and effective control of LD and bringing hope for millions of LD patients.

1. How Humans can get Lyme disease

The human transmission of Lyme disease starts from ticks. Ticks are small common external insects of the spider family that feed on blood sucked from humans and animals. The tick becomes infected by pulling bacteria called spirochetes that cause Lyme disease, while feeding on the animal carrying this pathogen. The spirochetes then multiply in the tick’s midgut and are ready to be transferred into the next host (such as animals and humans). The animals that most often carry ticks are white-footed field mice, deer, raccoons, opossums, skunks, weasels, foxes, shrews, moles, chipmunks, squirrels, and horses. 

Ticks harboring this bacterial pathogen are from genus Ixodes and belong to the five following species: I. daminii, I. scapularis, and I. pacificus (in Northern America) as well as I. ricinus and I. persulcatus (in Europe). The black-legged tick (called deer tick or Ixodes scapularis) spreads the disease in the northeastern, mid-Atlantic, and north-central United States, while the western black-legged tick (or Ixodes pacificus) spreads the disease on the Pacific Coast. In the USA the proportion of ticks reported to harbor Borrelia sp. ranges between 1-100% and in Europe between 0-85%. There are even greater variations among the different counties within the states and from area to area within a county or state. 

In nature, ticks undergo sequential transformation from egg, to larva, to nymph, and finally they become an adult form called imago. Although ticks can spread the infection at all development/maturation stages, the most concerning are the nymphs since they are abundant during spring and summer. Nymphs are small (1-2 mm) and their bite is painless, and thus they are very difficult to detect. Ticks can attach to any part of the human or animal body but are often found in the areas most easy to be missed, such as the scalp, the armpits, and groin.

NOTE:

  • There is no evidence that Lyme disease is transmitted from person to person, however, Lyme disease developed during pregnancy may lead to infection of the placenta and possible miscarriage. 
  • Recently some connection between Lyme disease and autism was also brought to light. Moreover, there are reports that spirochetes of Lyme disease can live in blood that is stored for donation, and for that reason donors infected with Lyme disease should not donate blood. 
  • Pets can also get Lyme disease and bring infected ticks into the home or garden. 
  • There is yet no trustworthy evidence, that Lyme disease is an air-borne disease, which means it cannot be transmitted through air, food, water, or from the bites of mosquitoes, flies, fleas, or lice.

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2. How prevalent is Lyme disease

The latest statistics confirm that Lyme disease is the most common vector-borne disease in the USA (with ~30,000 cases annually) and in Europe (with ~65-80,000 cases stated each year). However, these numbers reflect only reported cases, and the real numbers may be even 5-10 times higher due to frequent misdiagnosis of Lyme disease and false-negative results that may occur in as many as 50% of the cases.

Lyme disease has been reported in all continents except Antarctica. In the USA almost all states face a problem. However, most Lyme disease cases (~95%) have occurred in Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin. Lyme disease has been reported in almost all countries in Europe, especially in the Scandinavian countries, Germany, and Slovenia. For more information please see the map representing Lyme disease presence in the USA and Europe.

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3. What are the symptoms of Lyme disease

Lyme disease is manifested as an inflammatory disease that can affect many organs in the body. In its early (localized) stage it affects mainly the skin. However in later stages (disseminated and/or chronic) the inflammation can spread to the joints, nervous system and, to a lesser extent, the heart, muscles or other organs.

The symptoms of Lyme disease may suddenly disappear even without any treatment or after a mild treatment. Also, not all symptoms have to always appear in a patient, and different symptoms may appear at different times. Several medical disorders, recognized over the years as separate clinical cases, i.e., acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans (ACA), lymphadenosis benigna cutis (LABC), erythema migrans (EM) and, lymphocytic meningoradiculitis (Bannwarth's syndrome), are currently accepted as the indicators of Lyme disease.

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4. Stages of Lyme disease progression

There are four recognized stages of Lyme disease:

        -  Early localized stage (3-30 days post-tick bite). If Lyme disease is not adequately treated at this stage, it will spread from the site of tick’s bite to other parts of the body, generating a plethora of symptoms that may randomly appear and disappear.

Symptoms of early localized stage include:

Erythema migrans (EM): A red spot (skin lesion) at the site of the tick bite, which will expand over time forming a bull's eye pattern is the hallmarks of Lyme disease. However, only about 10% of patients develop the appearance of a classic bull’s eye. In some the rash can appear at more than one area of the body. Moreover, ticks very often spread other pathogens that may cause a different type of rash. Also, in some people this small bump or redness at the site of a tick’s bite may disappear over the next 1-2 days.

Flu-like symptoms: Symptoms include fatigue, chills, fever, headache, muscle and joint aches, swollen lymph nodes, and nausea. It is important to note that these symptoms may vanish without treatment. Some people may get these non-specific symptoms together with the erythema migrans rash, or these general symptoms may be the only sign of infection.

    -   Early disseminated stage (days to weeks post-tick bite). Lyme disease not adequately treated at this stage can lead to developing a variety of health complications by allowing the pathogens to go into hiding places in the body.

Symptoms of early disseminated stage include:

♦ Additional rashes (erythema migrans) in other places on the body

♦ Fatigue, nausea, diarrhea

♦ Depression, anxiety, mood swings

♦ Cognitive impairment, light/sound sensitivity

♦ Severe headaches and/or neck stiffness due to meningitis

♦ Pain and swelling in the large joints

♦ Shooting pains with or without sleep disturbance

♦ Facial or Bell's palsy (loss of muscle tone on one or both sides of the face)

♦ Heart palpitations and dizziness due to changes in heartbeat

     - Late disseminated stage (months to years post-tick bite). At this stage treatment becomes more complicated.

Symptoms indicating late disseminated stage of LD may include:

Arthritis: About 60% of patients with untreated Lyme disease develop arthritis (severe joint pain with swelling), usually in the knees, although pain can move from one joint to a second one. It has been pointed out that some HLA markers (HLA-DRB1*0401 and HLA-DRB1*101) are related with host immune responses due to their interaction with the Borrelia burgdorferi OspA protein. Note: arthritis manifests differently than arthralgia (pain, but not swelling).

Neurological complications: Up to 5% of patients with untreated Lyme disease develop neurological symptoms such as shooting pains, weakness or itching/tingling in the hands and/or feet, short-term memory deficiency, impaired muscle movement, and severe fatigue. Also, heart problems (an irregular heartbeat), and inflammation of the eyes and liver (hepatitis) can appear.

    - Persistent (chronic) stage (called PTLDS, Post-Treatment Lyme Disease Syndrome).

Symptoms of chronic/persistent stage may last for decades and may include: 

♦ Muscle and/or joint pains

♦ Cognitive defects

♦ Sleep disturbance

♦ Fatigue

These symptoms proceed for months to years after treatment and develop in approximately 10-20% of patients with Lyme disease. They are allegedly caused by an autoimmune response of the organism and cause lasting damage to the host’s tissues. However, the exact cause is unknown. Importantly, studies have shown that continuation of antibiotic therapy does not help and can even be destructive. According to LymeMD (www.lymemd.blogspot.com) and ILADS (International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society) these patients are also facing:

● Changes in mental status

● Neurological abnormalities such as a deviated uvula and or soft palate, decreased sensation on one side of the face, asymmetry of the face, restricted movement of the eyes with extreme lateral gaze, hearing loss, deviation of the tongue with protrusion, Hoffman or Babinsky reflexes, decreased sensation to pinprick of the extremities in a "stocking and glove" pattern, and a loss of vibration sense in the feet compared with the hands

● A low CD57 count

● Low magnesium level

● A Lyme C6 peptide antibody index which exceeds 0.1

● Antibodies to co-infections such as by Babesia sp., Ehrlichia sp., and Bartonella sp.

● Mild elevation of auto-immune disease markers including: RT (rheumatoid factor) and ANA (antinuclear antibodies)

● Low or borderline levels of vitamin B12 and folic acid

● A shift in vitamin D levels characterized by low vitamin 25-Hydroxy Vitamin D (25-OH-VitD) and high vitamin 1,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25-OH-VitD)

● Abnormal brain MRI showing non-specific white matter disease

● Abnormal brain SPECT scan showing changes in blood flow in the brain

Jarisch-Herxheimer reaction: Approximately 15% of Lyme disease patients have post-treatment reactions (within 24 hours or longer after treatment) called Jarisch-Herxheimer, manifested by elevated temperature, myalgia, and arthralgia, resulting from increased levels of circulating antigens/endotoxins derived from dead spirochetes and latent forms.

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5. Diagnosis of Lyme disease

Diagnosis of Lyme disease is not easy and is often a challenge for a physician. Currently Lyme disease is diagnosed based on:

♦ History of possible exposure to infected ticks

♦ Symptoms

♦ Laboratory blood tests

Relying only on symptoms is not dependable since they are non-specific and often mimic other medical conditions, because ticks can co-transmit other infections at the same time . Various symptoms (e.g., "auto–immune" responses) may occur if other infections are involved such as Campylobacter (Guillain-Barre syndrome), Chlamydia (Reiter's syndrome), and Strep throat (rheumatic heart disease). In addition, about 7-10%  patients may not develop symptoms (called asymptomatic patients).

Commonly performed laboratory tests

ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay, also called enzyme immunoassay or EIA): This test verifies the presence of infection by detecting antibodies produced by the patient’s body against spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. ELISA test evaluates the body’s response to infection rather than presence of the bacteria. Current ELISA tests (i.e., EIA or IFA) are not sensitive enough for routine screening and may give false-negative results in up to 50% of the cases.

Western blot (or immunoblot): This blood test is usually performed when the ELISA test is positive in order to confirm the diagnosis. Western blot detects antibodies to several proteins of Borrelia burgdorferi. Due to poor sensitivity of the ELISA tests, the Western blot is a better option. However, different laboratories use different methods and validation criteria, and a patient can have a positive test result from one lab and a negative test result from another. Western blot test is more reliable when performed at least a month after a tick’s bite when the infection has already developed, although none of the current tests are 100% accurate:

Other tests

Cultivation: This method allows for direct detection of the presence of bacteria in the body. Identification of Lyme bacteria presence in a patient’s blood is a “gold standard” test done by culturing serum/blood or biopsies taken from a patient. A blood (or tissue) sample is added to a special medium and left for a certain time to allow the bacteria to grow so it can be visually detected. Although this method gives evident proof of infection, it is not routinely performed because Lyme disease bacteria grow very slowly and the results are not available quickly. Also, there are no commercially available culture tests for Lyme disease.

PCR (Polymerase-Chain Reaction): This test detects bacterial DNA in fluids obtained from a patient’s infected joint or cerebrospinal cord fluid (CSF). PCR multiplies specific fragments of the Lyme spirochetes’ DNA. It can detect the bacteria presence, but also gives many false negative results. It is not very effective in diagnosing Borrelia infection in the blood or urine; however, it is useful to indicate chronic Lyme disease. PCR based tests are not frequently performed as they need specific equipment, are costly, and require trained and skilled personnel to perform them.

It is estimated that about 20-30% of patients can have false negative antibody/serological test results, however, some reports quote that this number can reach even 50%. The reason for that is that people with early stages of Lyme disease may not produce enough specific antibodies for several weeks from infection to reach the level detectable by these diagnostic tests. Also, signs and symptoms of Lyme disease are non-specific and often mimic other medical conditions, and ticks can transmit other diseases at the same time. However, delaying treatment by waiting for reliable test results gives the pathogens additional time to disseminate in the body. If early symptoms are undetected, ignored, or treated incorrectly, patients can progress to more advanced stages of Lyme disease with more severe symptoms appearing weeks, months or perhaps even years after a tick’s bite.

Therefore, today LD diagnosis is based primarily on clinical recognition and evaluation of symptoms of Lyme disease in a person who has a high probability of attracting it by living or being in a high risk area. In patients with erythema migrans, diagnosis of early Lyme disease should be made on the basis of symptoms and evidence of a tick bite. As mentioned above, serological tests have poor sensitivity in patients with erythema migrans during acute phase (positive results are in 25-40% of patients). These tests are more accurate in patients with early disseminated neurological and cardiac Lyme disease (positive results are in 80-100% of patients), or with late manifestations of Lyme disease such as arthritis (positive results - nearly 100%  patients).

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6. How Lyme disease can be treated

Contemporary medicine cannot offer an effective cure for Lyme disease. There are two main approaches to management of this disease and the medical community is still debating about which is the best and the final decision has not yet been reached:

The Infectious Disease Society of American (IDSA) recommends two weeks of antibiotic treatment for early Lyme and does not recognize chronic Lyme disease.

The International Lyme and Associated Diseases Society (ILADS) recommends flexible individualized treatment based on patient response.

Conventional treatments

These treatments rely mainly on antibiotics:

Oral antibiotics: Antibiotics commonly used for oral treatment include β-lactam antibiotics such as doxycycline, amoxicillin, or cefuroxime axetil. These are typically recommended for an early form of Lyme disease: usually doxycycline for adults and children over 8, and amoxicillin or cefuroxime for adults, younger children, and pregnant or breast-feeding women, and are prescribed for 14-21 days of administration. Another type are macrolide antibiotics such as Azithromycin, Clarithromycin, Erythromycin that are used if a patient has contradictory conditions to β-lactams.

Intravenous antibiotics: Antibiotics commonly used for intravenous treatment include ceftriaxone, cefotaxime or penicillin. These are typically advised for treatment of late stages of Lyme disease and are administrated for 14-28 days. Intravenous antibiotics are administrated longer and can cause various side effects, including a lower white blood cell count, mild to severe diarrhea, or colonization or infection with other antibiotic resistant organisms unrelated to Lyme bacteria.

No vaccine is currently available for humans.

Alternative approaches

Many desperate patients dissatisfied with a lack of efficacy of prescribed medicines are turning to natural approaches which are generally safe without the severe side effects that are associated with pharmaceutical drugs.

Several plant extracts, oils, enzymes (proteases), vitamins, etc., have been used against Lyme disease, however with mixed results. Their application has mostly been based on the efficacy of these substances against various types of bacteria, not necessarily Borrelia sp. and on targeting symptoms rather than a causative factor of this disease. Moreover, these substances have been largely considered and applied as individual components mimicking the pharmaceutical drug approach. In this case, it is quite likely that, based on an extreme adaptive ability of Borreliaea, a resistance to such treatment can develop. Therefore, they do not assure persistent efficacy due to their limitations in the eradication of the bacteria (as a primary cause of Lyme disease) and their damaging effects on the patient’s organism (as a secondary cause of Lyme disease).

Only a few naturally occurring compounds extracted, from seeds, leaves, bark, roots of plants (e.g., herbs, spices), were researched to date including grape seed extract, teasel root extract, samento extract (cat's claw extract; two species of cat's claw are currently in use such as Uncaria tomentosa and Uncaria guianensis), and banderol extract (plant extract from the bark of the Otoba sp., a tree growing in South America).

Cellular health and micronutrient synergy approach

At the Dr. Rath Research Institute we pioneered the nutrient synergy approach in developing new strategies in a natural control of various pathologies, including Borrelia infection. 

We tested the efficacy of 50 different natural compounds against two species of Borrelia: Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto (pathogen causing Lyme disease in the USA) and Borrelia garinii  (pathogen causing Lyme disease in Europe). The initial results have been very encouraging. After evaluating the efficacy of these natural components against all known morphological forms of Borrelia (spirochetes, rounded forms and biofilm), we selected specific phytobiologics (phytochemicals and vitamins) which affected all these  forms at once. Further, we identified synergistic composition of these micronutrients which displayed higher anti-borreliaea efficacy compared to their individual components or their random combinations. The results indicate that the mixture of these micronutrients are more effective in eliminating Borrelia rounded forms and biofilm than commonly used antibiotic, Doxycycline.

In vivo studies:

We treated healthy (control) and sick mice with our mix for 4 weeks. Samples collected at the end of the experiments were subjected to testing for clinical parameters. We also looked for any adverse effects. We did not notice signs of weakness, aggressiveness, death, obesity, or thirst and this told us that mix is well tolerated and did not cause diabetes, anemia, bleeding, etc. To confirm these observations, we subjected the animals’ blood for pre-clinical evaluation and did not notice differences in basic parameters such as levels of red and white blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit and no hemolysis was present. On closer evaluation we noticed elevated levels of monocytes in only the sick group of animals not treated with mix. This means that the immune system recognized Borrelia as an invader (injected pathogen survived and the diseased developed). We confirmed this result by subjecting the biopsies from different organs of all animal groups to qPCR assay, which is a qualitative and, at the same time, quantitative method allowing for detection of Borrelia DNA. We detected Borrelia DNA in all animals injected and not treated, whereas almost 90% reduction was seen in animals with injected pathogen but treated with our mix. No Borrelia DNA was present in healthy not injected animals. Finally, we looked at inflammation and toxicity by checking appropriate markers. No changes were seen between healthy treated animals and healthy untreated animals, which mean that even in healthy animals mix did not cause any adverse effects. In contrast, increased levels of inflammatory markers were noticed in the sick untreated group but without signs of toxicity. Sick animals treated with mix did not show increased inflammation or toxic effects.

Concerns with conventional Lyme disease treatment

There is a common perception that patients treated with antibiotics at the early stages of Lyme disease recover rapidly and completely, and that the later disease stages can also be treated effectively, although recovery is slower. However, in reality, the rate of disease progression and individual response to these treatments vary. Some patients face no signs of disease and others have symptoms that remain for months or even years following the treatment. In addition, there are many concerns with a long-term antibiotic treatment and, since its effectiveness has been neither observed nor proven, it is generally not recommended. In addition, it can lead to antibiotic resistance. Unfortunately, the number of newly infected people is increasing and many those who already had Lyme disease are relapsing and developing persistent (chronic) symptoms.

Reoccurrence of disease is mainly attributed to inadequate prevention, ineffective therapy, and development of bacterial resistance. On average approximately 10-20% (even up to 50%) of patients who followed appropriate antibiotic treatment may face significant, persistent or recurrent symptoms of Lyme disease such as joint and/or muscle aches/pains and fatigue which can last for many months or even years lowering their quality of life and making subsequent treatment more complicated. At the beginning of oral or IV antibiotic treatment, these patients may have experienced a slow health improvement; however, prolonged antibiotic treatment (longer than 4-6 weeks) is usually not recommended due to side effects and serious health complications. The cause of these persisting symptoms is unknown

Animal studies indicate that antibiotic treatment in dogs may not always lead to complete elimination of spirochetes. Even more, after 4 weeks of antibiotic therapy in mice there was an induced re-activation of Borrelia burgdorferi from its latent forms causing spirochetemia. There is also scientific evidence indicating that after a long-term administration of antibiotics to mice the infective spirochetes can persist in mice without inducing signs of a disease, but the authors of this study project this attenuated population of spirochetes will eventually die or be killed by host defenses.

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7. What is known about the bacteria which cause Lyme disease

 A. Various Borrelia species

The causative pathogen of Lyme disease is a bacterium of genus Borrelia, which has at least 37 known species. Twelve of them are Lyme-related and the number of genomic strains is unknown. All Borrelia sp. are host-dependent, invasive, micro-aerophilic and slow-growing and this is the primary reason of the complications with diagnosing Lyme disease. Until recently, only three genetic species were thought to cause Lyme disease such as:

B. burgdorferisensu stricto: the predominant species in North America, but also present in Europe

B. afzelii and B. garinii: both predominant in Eurasia

In addition, there are 10 more bacteria species emerging, such as:

B. mayonii isolated in the U.S.

B. valaisiana isolated throughout Europe as well as East Asia

B. lusitaniae present in Europe (especially Portugal), North Africa and Asia

B. bissettii identified in the U.S. and Europe

B. spielmanii present in Europe

B. burgdorferi sensu lato: B. japonica, B. tanukii and B. turdae (in Japan); B. sinica (in China); and B. andersonii (in the USA)

B. miyamotoi spirochete, related to the relapsing fever group of spirochetes suspected of causing illness in Japan. Spirochetes similar to B. miyamotoi have recently been found in ticks of both species such as Ixodes ricinus (in Sweden) and Ixodes scapularis (in the USA)

Additionally, B. lonestari transmitted by ticks of species Amblyomma americanum (lone star tick) in the U.S. is suspected of causing southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI), also known as Masters disease after Edwin Jordan Masters. This illness clinically resembles Lyme disease but currently there is no diagnostic test available to identify it and no official treatment exists as well (although it is usually based on prescribed antibiotics).

Although clinical symptoms after infection with different species may vary, common indicators have been specified. Except for B. recurrentis (which causes louse-borne relapsing fever and is transmitted by the human body louse), all known species are believed to be transmitted by ticks.

B. Why it is difficult to eradicate Borrelia once the infection occurs

Borrelia sp. exists in three morphological forms, which allow them to withstand and survive changing and even hostile environments:

1. The vegetative (active) form is a spiral-shaped form called spirochete. This form has a unique characteristic, namely they possess flagella allowing them to be motile and survive viscous conditions and they can even enter into tissue or cells causing intracellular infection. When these bacteria feel threatened, e.g., by starvation, changes in temperature and/or pH, exposure to antibiotics, etc., they quickly adapt to new situations by changing into so called latent forms.

 

2. Latent (atypical) forms of this bacterium include rounded forms and biofilm. These forms allow the bacteria to survive any hostile condition and become active again after these conditions cease. This is due to their internal ability of genetic adaptation followed by phenotypic changes in the spirochetes. The bacteria become structurally and metabolically different transforming to new, dormant forms. The presence of these atypical forms of Borrelia and their extreme adaptation to environmental changes may be the reason why the spirochete can survive for years or even for decades in the host’s body.

Rounded forms (bodies) are living forms which undergo shape changes facilitated by unique proteins produced in bacterial genome. They have a low metabolic ra te, they are not motile but may be transmissible and can induce infection independently of spirochetes presence. The finding that energy is required for the spiral form to convert to latent form is another argument confirming that these altered forms have a survival function, and are not degeneration products. The spirochetes can transform to latent rounded forms of different appearance, such as cysts (round bodies), granular forms (dot-like spirochetes, pearl of strain) or so called CWD forms (spheroplasts, L-forms, bleb-like spirochetes):

 

Granular forms disintegrate into particles called granules that are liberated from the spirochete body by budding and extrusion

CWD (Cell Deficient Wall) forms do not have a cell wall (there is little information available about them)

● Cysts are morphologically diverse. Cysts may contain more than a single spirochete and their division is independent of the division of the spiral forms inside the cyst. Several studies have shown that Borrelia sp. can convert from the spirochete to the cyst when hostile conditions are present and revert back to the spirochete form when conditions are safe for them again. All rounded forms may not be eradicated by short-term antibiotic therapy (mice inoculated intra-peritoneally with cysts produce motile spirochetes generating an infection in the animal).

Biofilm is an organized structure formed by many, if not all, bacteria. It contains a thin layered bacteria attached to host tissues, to other bacteria, or to non-living matrices or medical devices. The bacteria is embedded or covered by a self-produced matrix of extracellular substance composed of complex polysaccharides, proteins, and nucleic acids. Biofilm generated by Borrelia shields them from antibiotics and the immune system components. It can also house other microorganisms, e.g., Mycoplasma and vice versa Borrelia can hide in other microbial's biofilm.

 

Within the biofilm, Borrelia is capable of communicating with its own species or other bacteria and develops various aggressive measures against an animal or human host. Borrelia can also receive and exchange genetic information such as drug resistant genes. This is one of the reasons why even many years of administration of antibiotics cannot rid the infection. Although, immune cells (phagocytes) can recognize and attach to the biofilm they are unable to consume it. That is why a biofilm is considered to facilitate a persistent infection. Recent studies point out that Borrelia sp. contained within the biofilm are much more difficult to eliminate being 1000 times more resistant to antibiotics than the spirochetes. Furthermore, Borrelia may exist as either biofilms attached to the surface or as a planktonic-like free floating biofilm structure in living (such as blood) and/or non-living environments (such as broth). Biofilm can be either composed of only one morphological form of bacteria (homogeneous biofilm) or contain a variety of forms (heterogeneous biofilm).

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8. Pathogenesis of Lyme disease

A. Survival and adaptive strategies of Borrelia sp.

After infection, Borrelia may persist in humans and animals for months or even years and, as some studies have shown, regardless of whether the disease was or was not treated with antibiotics. Various survival strategies of Borrelia have been postulated and scientifically proven showing how the spirochetes can persist in their host.

They include:

♦ Physical location or relocation in body tissues to sites less accessible to the immune system and antibiotics

♦ Use of the host's enzymatic system such as plasmin and/or proteases (e.g., MMPs) to destroy collagen and connective tissue allowing the bacteria to move in the tissue, penetrate blood vessels and cross a blood–brain barrier

♦ Invading a variety of cells and “hiding” inside of them during human infection; Borrelia may be able to evade the immune system this way and to some degree be protected against antibiotics (coiling phagocytosis)

♦ Altering their spirochete forms by converting to various rounded forms (cysts, granules, spheroplasts) and biofilm

♦ High antigenic variation and changing gene expression: Borrelia sp. have the ability to modulate its surface protein expression in response to environmental threats thereby evading the immune system and establishing a chronic infection (e.g., the outer envelope of the cyst has no OspA protein, therefore all antibodies the body produces against the spirochetes are not effective to fight latent rounded forms)

♦ Immune system suppression: complement inhibition, induction of anti-inflammatory cytokines, and the formation of immune complexes (their presence has been shown to be involved in false-negative serological tests of blood and cerebrospinal fluid)

Resistance against phagocytes and lymphocytes

B.   Molecular mechanisms involved in Lyme disease progression

1. Colonization of the bacteria (multiplication, spreading, inducing an inflammatory response)

Genes involved: ↓ OspA -> ↑ OspC/OspE-F (Erps), Rev, DbpA-B, VraA, P47 (BBK32), BBF01, 41 kDa -> Vmps (Vlps/Vsps)

2. Entering the bloodstream and colonizing tissues

♦ Penetration of blood vessels and homing

♦ Attachment to tissue cell surfaces and matrix glycosaminoglycans (integrins, selectins, VCAM and ICAM) as well as ECM proteins (extracellular matrix proteins)

♦ Activation of plasmin and induction of host proteases to facilitate tissue dissemination and/or inflammation

3. Persistence

♦ The vls antigenic variation system (down-regulation of highly antigenic surface proteins - no OspA-F proteins)

♦ Complement-regulator acquiring surface proteins (CRASPs)

♦ Anti-OspA Ab presence, self-reacting T lymphocytes existence, MHC class I and II polymorphism

♦ Coiling phagocytosis (homing of pathogen inside the cells)

♦ Anti-inflammatory cytokines

...hide content

9. How can I protect myself against Lyme disease

It is important to take precautions when planning any trip to wooded areas or grasslands and yards where Lyme disease prevails, since these are the preferred dwellings of ticks. Ticks do not handle sunny lawns because they dry out quickly and die. The peak of infection with Lyme disease has been observed in late spring, summer, and in early fall when juvenile ticks are starting to feed. Being bitten by deer ticks during winter months is an exception.

To prevent tick bites:

♦ Wear long sleeves and tightly laced bright clothes that are tucked into pants and boots when walking throughout these risky areas

♦ Routinely check yourself, your family and pets and all clothing for ticks, especially after outdoor trips

♦ Shower and shampoo your hair and wash and tumble dry clothes in a dryer on high heat for an hour to kill remaining ticks

♦ People often apply tick repellents with DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) to clothes, shoes and socks before going out. The caution with using all these chemical repellents is that they can cause serious side effects, particularly when used frequently or in high concentrations. They should not be used on infants and children as they are especially at risk for adverse reactions. In addition, chronic exposure to DEET may induce insomnia, cognitive impairments, etc. Although DEET has been approved for use in children, caution is warranted. Another repellent called permethrin (containing 0.5% of permethrin) is designed to be placed on clothing and can be used alone or in combination with DEET. Permethrin belongs to the family of synthetic chemicals functioning as neurotoxins. It is dangerous especially to fish, honey bees and cats. Other repellents registered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) may be found at http://cfpub.epa.gov/oppref/insect/.

Keep grass cut short in your yard/garden

...hide content

10. Additional information

1. Research articles

Our research group

  • Phytochemicals and micronutrients and LD
  • Phytochemicals and micronutrients and LD-review
  • Phytochemicals and micronutrients with doxycycline and LD
  • Phytochemicals and micronutrients interactions
  • Phytochemicals and micronutrients as a one composition in vitro
  • Phytochemicals and micronutrients as a one composition in vivo

Other research groups

2. Webinars

- Webinar (English): "Micronutrients against Lyme Disease"

- Presentation (English): "Lyme Disease-Beyond Antibiotics"

- Presentation (English): "Lyme Disease - Immune system: friend or foe?”

- Webinar (Polish): "Borelioza - Rosnacy Problem Zdrowotny"

- Webinar (Polish): "Borelioza – Oprócz Antybiotyków"

- Webinar (Polish): “Borelioza - Układ immunologiczny: przyjaciel czy wróg?”

3. Guidelines

- ILADS : Treatment Guidelines

- IDSA: Treatment Guidelines

- Dr Rath Research Institute: Treatment Guidelines (English, Polish, German)

 

...hide content

  • Our research group

-          Phytochemicals and micronutrients and LD

-          Phytochemicals and micronutrients and LD-review

-          Phytochemicals and micronutrients with doxycycline and LD

-          Phytochemicals and micronutrients interactions

-          Phytochemicals and micronutrients as a one composition in vitro

-          Phytochemicals and micronutrients as a one composition in vivo

  • Other research groups

-          Grapefruit seed and LD

-          Teasel root and LD

-          Stevia and LD

-          Manganese and Zinc and LD

Lipoprotein (a)

Lipoprotein (a), compared to LDL and HDL is a lesser known lipoprotein, yet it is one of the strongest genetic risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD), including myocardial infarctions, stroke and other forms of CVD1,2.

Lp(a) is a cholesterol carrier composed of an LDL molecule with its structural protein - ApoB-100 - bound to the additional high molecular weight glycoprotein called apolipoprotein-a (Apo-a). These two proteins are linked via disulfide bonds3See the graph

Lp(a) has unique properties. Lp(a), due to the presence of an additional large protein (apo-a), has high binding affinity to various components of the extracellular cellular matrix (ECM), including fibronectin, laminin, and others5 . Based on its homology with plasminogen7, apo(a) also binds avidly to fibrinogen and fibrin, displaying strong antifibrinolytic properties and it is being considered the “missing link” between atherogenesis and thrombogenesis8.

Lp(a) and atherosclerosis: Earlier work by Dr. Rath and his colleagues have shown that Lp(a) accumulates within human atherosclerotic plaques and its deposition, more than LDL, parallels the progression of atherosclerosis4. Moreover, apo(a) is known to enhance smooth muscle cell replication6,the hallmark of atherosclerotic plaque formation in humans.

While many characteristics of this molecule have been elucidated since its discovery9 half a century ago, the physiological significance of Lp(a) has been poorly understood10.

Discovery of scurvy and Lp(a) connection:Discovery of scurvy and Lp(a) connection:

Lipoprotein(a) is primarily found in humans and sub-human primates. The emergence of the apo(a) gene was dated to about 40 million years ago, about the time of the divergence of the Old World and New World monkeys7. This date coincides with the loss of endogenous vitamin C (ascorbate) synthesis, through a mutation of the gene for gulonolactone-oxidase (Gulo) in the ancestor of man11. This fact led to the hypothesis presented by Dr. Rath and Dr. Pauling in 1990 connecting these two evolutionary events12. This concept explains many aspects of cardiovascular disease and at the same time challenges the highly promoted idea that elevated cholesterol blood levels are the main cause for atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes.


It is widely known that loss of the ability to produce vitamin C endogenously rendered our ancestors susceptible to scurvy- the disease which develops after a few months of complete vitamin C depletion in the diet and is characterized by disruption in collagen synthesis and a loss of connective tissue integrity. The morphological changes occurring in the vascular wall during hypoascorbemia (suboptimal vitamin C intake) and scurvy are characterized by the breakdown of the ECM and a loss of the endothelial barrier function. This leads to the formation of large endothelial gaps which allow the influx of macromolecules into the vascular wall that are normally excluded by an intact endothelial barrier. With continued lack of vitamin C supply a gradual deterioration of the vascular wall structure leads to hemorrhagic blood loss, which is the most frequent cause of death in people with scurvy.

According to this new understanding presented by Dr. Rath, the presence of the apo(a) macromolecule with its primary structure larger than collagen, with antifibrinolytic properties and with high binding affinity to extracellular matrix components, could have functioned as a repair molecule compensating for the structural ECM impairment caused by suboptimal vitamin C intake and scurvy. Therefore, loss of endogenous vitamin C production coinciding with emergence of Lp(a) synthesis in humans can illustrate the event contributing to the survival of our ancestors at the times of severe nutrient deficiencies during the Ice Ages. ...hide content

Scientific support for scurvy- Lp(a)- heart disease connection: Scientific support for scurvy- Lp(a)- heart disease connection:

Our work: In our earlier publications we demonstrated how vitamin deficiency can trigger the development of atherosclerosis independent of dietary cholesterol and presented natural means to control this process HEART DISEASE. Recently we developed a unique transgenic mouse model that allows for increasing our understanding of human atherosclerosis on a much larger scale.

Our newly developed mouse (Gulo-/-;Lp(a)+) mimics human metabolism in its two distinct genetic features: the lack of endogenous vitamin C synthesis (Gulo-/-) and the expression of human Lp(a). This mouse model allowed us to test whether the loss of vascular integrity due to prolonged vitamin C depletion and its suboptimal intake can result in an increased deposition of Lp(a) molecules inside the vascular wall and consequently, atherosclerosis. Moreover, we could test whether dietary supplementation with high levels of vitamin C can prevent this pathological process. The results of this important study, which challenge current cholesterol-based approaches to atherosclerosis, have been submitted for a publication.

Other work: Independently, the connection between loss of vitamin C production, structural damage in the vascular wall and elevated blood cholesterol levels that was discovered by Dr. Rath about 20 years ago has been gaining increased scientific support. Among others it was confirmed by the work of Maeda et al. , using genetically modified mice which, similar to humans, have lost the ability of endogenous production of vitamin C. The early hallmark of vitamin C deficiency displayed in these mice was the disruptions of the vascular structure and elevated blood cholesterol levels. This model, however does not allow to investigate the role of the other critical factor in human atherosclerosis, which is the Lp(a). ...hide content

Micronutrients and Immunity

Nutrition, immunity and infection are inter-related.1 Malnourished persons show immune dysfunction, which predisposes them to infections. Conversely, micronutrient supplementation can enhance immune function and suppress infection. read more...

Malnutrition and nutrient deficiencies are common in infectious diseases and are the leading underlying cause of immune deficiency.2 Of the 13-14 million children dying annually in developing countries, most are malnourished and 70% die of infectious diseases. Immune deficiency as a consequence of malnutrition is the leading cause of death of children, the elderly, and adults, with more severe consequences than HIV-related causes.

Malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies disrupt the function of various immune system components, weakening immune defenses and increasing vulnerability to various diseases. The illness in turn is accompanied by the loss of bodily nutrients, which further aggravate pre-existing nutrient deficiencies. If the latter are not addressed, the vulnerability to other diseases increases, triggering a spiral of diseases often impossible to control. Many of these infectious diseases can be prevented and controlled by simple and affordable measures, such as nutrient supplementation. ...read less

Nutrients support all the critical steps of our immunity for an effective immune response. These include:

  • Non-specific defense components such as the synthesis of interferon and function of phagocytic cells.
  • Protective anti-microbial barriers created by the skin, mucus membranes, tears, saliva, gastric juice, etc.
  • Production of antibodies and optimization of cell-mediated immunity. It is well established that micronutrients such as vitamin C, A, B-5, B-6, B-12, and folic acid as well as certain trace elements such as iron, zinc, selenium, copper and others are essential for optimizing white blood cell production and immune function.3,4

It is also known that a single nutrient does not ensure optimum health and a complete spectrum of micronutrients is needed to support the immune system to function at full capacity. This is the approach promoted by Cellular Medicine, which focuses on nutrient synergy to optimizing cellular metabolism and restoring its balance, which is essential for health. Our research has shown that nutrient synergy is more effective than single nutrients, or their random combination, in addressing specific physiological tasks. Nutrient synergy can improve the synthesis and function of infection-fighting blood cells as well as stop infectious agents from spreading.2 Thus, nutrient synergy can provide effective health solutions through improving the general immunity of the body and supporting its physiological functioning.

Information on how micronutrients can affect the course of AIDS and tuberculosis can be found here. Information on how nutrients affect avian flu and human influenza virus is summarized here.

References Cited

  1. Bhaskaram P Nutritional Review 2002; 60(5): S40-5.
  2. A. Niedzwiecki, M. Rath, Malnutrition: The Leading Cause of Immune Deficiency Diseases Worldwide, DRRI Brochure, 2005.
  3. Beisel WR Am J. Clin Nutr 1982; 35: 415
  4. Watson RR Nutrition, disease resistance, and immunity. New York, Marcel Dekker, 1984.

 

Men Cancers

Prostate cancer

Prostate cancer, the number one incidence of cancer in men and second most deadly cancer in the U.S., primarily affects males 55 and older, and is more common in African American males than Caucasian males. Prostate cancer occurs more frequently in the industrialized countries, which account for about 75% of cases; and the highest rates are found in Europe, North America and Australia. Prostate cancers have been identified as hormone dependent (androgen-sensitive) and independent (androgen-insensitive).

Current diagnostic methods, such as PSA tests and digital rectal exams, have helped with early detection of prostate cancer. Standard treatment of prostate cancer consists of surgery (prostatectomy), hormonal therapy and radiotherapy. read more...

We investigated the effect of selected micronutrients working in synergy using both in vitro and in vivo approaches. These micronutrients included vitamin C, lysine, proline, N-acetylcysteine, arginine, green tea extract and other micronutrients.

Our in vitro studies were conducted using androgen insensitive human prostate cancer cell lines (PC-3 and DU-145) and androgen sensitive cell line (LNCaP). The results demonstrated that this synergy of micronutrients is effective in the suppression of prostate cancer cell growth, inhibition of MMP secretion, and other aspects. The invasion of both androgen sensitive and androgen insensitive prostate cancer cells through Matrigel was completely inhibited by this nutrient mixture, which implies its effectiveness in curbing prostate cancer cells invasion in the tissue, and the potential to control metastasis.

We also investigated the effect of micronutrient synergy on the growth of tumors induced by implanting PC-3 cells in athymic nude mice. In vivo data showed that the micronutrient mixture strongly suppressed the growth of tumors which was accompanied by the inhibition of Ki 67 index (indicator of cells division rate) and expression of MMPs (indicator of metastasis and tumor growth), VEGF (Vascular Endotherial Growth Factor – involved in angiogenesis and tumor growth), and fibronectin ( involved in metastasis and other cancer effects).

The administration of the micronutrient mixture in the diet did not cause any adverse effects.

These data suggest a strong potential of this nutrient mixture as a safe and effective approach in prostate cancer. ...read less

Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer is rare but still represents one of the most frequently occurring cancers in young men. Caucasian men contract testicular cancer more often than African American men. Its peak frequency is observed in early adulthood, between the ages of 20-35, and testicular cancer is rather uncommon after the age of 40.

Risk factors include undescended testes, Klinefelter syndrome and being HIV positive. While chemotherapy has been shown to work in testicular cancer in a number of cases, it is associated with severe side effects and a risk of various diseases. There is a need to develop safe and effective approaches in this type of cancer. read more...

We investigated the effects of micronutrient synergy on human testicular cancer cells. In particular we tested whether this nutrient mixture can affect cancer cell proliferation, expression of connective tissue digesting enzymes (MMPs) and cancer cell invasive potential. Our results suggested that these selected micronutrients working in synergy have anti-cancer potential in testicular cancer by inhibiting critical steps in cancer development such as MMP expression and cancer cells invasion. ...read less

Relevant Publications

Prostate Cancer

See publication list

Testicular Cancer

See publication list

Viral Infections-Human Influenza

Human Influenza

An effectively functioning immune system is the first line of defense against any infection. The body can also fight flu viruses by affecting many steps of viral metabolism, including:

  1. Interfering with the cellular processing of viruses and limiting their ability to enter and multiply inside the cells.
  2. Creating biological barriers obstructing the spread of viruses in the tissue.

Dr. Rath proposed that vitamin C and the amino acid Lysine can hinder the spread of viruses and other infectious agents in the body through increasing integrity and strength of the connective tissue surrounding the cells. These components can also affect viral infective ability and replication. read more...

Influenza is one of the oldest and most common infections. Every year it affects a large number of people and it can be life threatening, especially in young children, the elderly, and those who are malnourished or have a compromised immune system. In the US about 36,000 people die annually as a result of seasonal flu outbreaks. In recent years fears have been spreading through the media about the dangers of a pandemic of an avian flu or more recently, swine flu.

To date there are no effective therapies or vaccines against flu viruses. These viruses undergo frequent genetic mutations, therefore many treatments developed for specific forms of viruses lose their effectiveness, even after one flu season. Frequently recommended for flu (including bird flu and swine flu) drug Tamiflu can according to its manufacturer (Roche), shorten flu symptoms by one day only, provided it is taken within the first 48 hours of infection. Also, since this drug has been tested for short time use (a few days), it is not known whether its frequent or prolonged intake can cause serious toxicity. Hence, there is need for safe and effective therapy against the flu.

Cellular Medicine against flu: Our researchers have tested whether a specific micronutrient synergy mixture can affect the infectivity and/or multiplication of human influenza A virus. This mixture is composed of nutrients that have been researched and shown to be effective in controlling the spread and growth of cancer cells in the tissue. Since all viruses spread in the body using a mechanism similar to cancer this nutrient formulation could have an effect on viral infections as well. In addition, in various studies many of these nutrients have demonstrated clinical effectiveness in controlling flu. ...read less

We have evaluated the effect of nutrient synergy using the specific indicators of viral growth and spread. To date our preliminary findings have indicated the following:

  • Nutrients can inhibit the activity of the viral neuraminidase, an enzyme on the surface of viral particles that enables viruses to escape from host cells and infect other cells;1, 3
  • Nutrients can completely stop the multiplication of human influenza A/H1N1 virus in infected kidney cells;1,3
  • Nutrients can inhibit secretion of collagen digesting enzymes (MMP2 and MMP3) in cells infected by human influenza A/H1N1 virus, thereby stopping their spread in the tissue;2, 3
  • Nutrients demonstrated high antiviral activity against avian influenza virus A/H5N1 in cultured cell lines;4
  • In Vivo, a nutrient mixture was shown to inhibit pathological effects in chickens infected with the avian flu virus.5

Further details on our flu research project showing how nutrients can affect the multiplication and spread of influenza virus can be viewed here.

Facts about the occurrence, impact and public consequences of Swine flu can be found here.

References Cited

  1. Jariwalla RJ et al., Biofactors, 31(1): 1-15 (2007).
  2. Roomi MW et al., Biofactors, 33(1): 61-75 (2008).
  3. Jariwalla RJ et al., Chapter 15 in: Global View of the Fight Against Influenza (PM Mitrasinovic, Ed) Nova Science Publishers; pp 251-268 July 2009.
  4. Deryabin PG et al., Biofactors, 33: 85-97 (2008)
  5. Barbour EK et al., Intern J App Res Vet Med, 5(1): 9-16 (2007)

 

Tuberculosis

Long-term deficiency of specific nutrients essential for immune system function leads to impaired immunity and higher susceptibility to bacterial, viral and other infections.

Scope of Tuberculosis (TB) Scope of Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world’s leading infectious causes of death among adults. The global incidence of tuberculosis, 8-12 million new cases of active tuberculosis a year, resulting in deaths of over two million people a year, has been increasing by 1% annually since 1980. Developing countries have 90% of the world’s TB cases, with incidence concentrated mainly in Africa.  More than 500, 000 TB patients die annually in Africa where malnutrition is common. This disease is commonly associated with poverty and is prevalent in undernourished individuals. This problem is further exacerbated by the pervasive use of ARV drugs that can damage the immune system of AIDS patients who are taking them. In fact, a large number of AIDS patients die from TB.  Although conventional treatment relies on the use of antibiotics, the bacteria causing TB (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) have become increasingly resistant to current drugs and about 50% of the patients die despite this treatment. ...hide content

Disease progression and risk Disease progression and risk

Tuberculosis develops when after the infection with TB bacilli, the bacteria overcome the immune system defenses and begin to multiply. In about 1% to 5% of cases this occurs soon after infection. However, in the majority of cases, the disaese can develop after a longer period, sometimes even a few years. Such a latent infection has no obvious symptoms. The risk of bacteria activation increases with impaired function of the immune system such as in malnutrition and AIDS.

Patients with increased risk of contracting tuberculosis are those with diabetes, those on prolonged therapy with corticosteroids and immunosuppressing drugs, cancer patients (especially suffering from leukemia, and Hodgkin’s disease), patients who have had intestinal bypass , and those suffering from chronic malabsorption syndromes, vitamin D deficiency, and low body weight. ...hide content

Conventional treatments Conventional treatments

Treatment for TB is based on the use of antibiotics to kill the bacteria. The most commonly used antibiotics are rifampicin and isoniazid. However, TB requires much longer treatment periods than most other bacterial infections and it takes about 6 to 12 months to eliminate mycobacteria from the body. There is an increasing concern with the development of antibiotic resistance to TB.  It has been estimated that about 20% of TB cases that developed between 2000 and 2004 were resistant to standard treatments. Treatment of such TB cases often requires up to two years of daily use of multiple TB drugs with serious adverse effects which results in death in 40-60% of patients treated.

Hepatotoxicity is the most common adverse effect of standard TB treatment. This can be indicated by an increase in the level of enzymes (transaminases) which are the marker of liver cell damage (which in extreme cases may lead to interruption of TB treatment). This treatment can also lead to acute liver failure and even death. Hepatotoxicity due to isoniazid is most common, especially when combined with rifampicin; however, pyrazinamide is the most hepatotoxic among essential anti-TB drugs.

The increasing worldwide incidence of tuberculosis, especially multi drug resistant TB, necessitates a search for new more effective and less toxic treatment alternatives. ...hide content

Micronutrients and Tuberculosis Micronutrients and Tuberculosis

Malnutrition and a clinical deficiency of specific nutrients essential for immune system function leads to immune deficiency and higher susceptibility to bacterial, viral and other infections. Immune enhancing nutrients such as vitamin C (ascorbate) and other antioxidants have shown beneficial effects in various types of infections, including TB. Antioxidants used in conjunction with standard TB regimens, has been shown to accelerate healing from tuberculosis. Studies have shown that vitamin C can prevent the growth of cultures of tuberculosis bacterium.

Nutrients such as vitamin C and lysine can help improve immune system function, but also contribute to halting the spread of infectious agents. According to Dr Rath’s findings these nutrients are critical for inhibiting the activity of plasmin and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2 and MMP-9), which are used by bacteria and other infectious agents to spread in the body. They are also essential for maintaining optimum synthesis and structure of the connective tissue, the natural barrier for the spread of infections. Tuberculosis patients are found to have elevated MMP-9 levels, which is correlated with severity of illness in patients with active tuberculosis. MMP-9 is secreted by both the bacillus and host response to infection with mycobacterium tuberculosis. Our previous studies have demonstrated that adequate levels of ascorbic acid, proline and lysine can prevent MMP-9 secretion and degradation of collagen matrix in various systems.

Pulmonary TB is accompanied by inflammation and related to oxidative stress, which leads to development of lung fibrosis and its dysfunction. TB patients, even after apparently successful drug treatment, still demonstrate high levels of circulating lipid peroxides and low concentrations of plasma vitamin E. Administration of nutrients such as ascorbic acid and vitamin E have been shown to accelerate tuberculosis healing, based on decay cavity closure and negative sputum. Furthermore, a clinical trail cohort study of 26,975 Finnish men during a median follow-up of 6 to 7 years found a high inverse association between vitamin C intake and incidence of tuberculosis. Subjects with intake of >90mg of vitamin C and increased consumption of fruits, vegetable and berries had significantly lower risk of tuberculosis. ...hide content

Nutrient Synergy In TB: Clinical approach Nutrient Synergy In TB: Clinical approach

To find a natural way to control TB and improve conventional treatment of this disease, we conducted a joint clinical study in collaboration with physicians in Europe in 120 hospitalized patients with active TB.  In this study all patients (test group) received the conventional TB treatment supplemented with a specific combination of vitamins and other nutrients for 2 months. A control group (100 patients) recently treated at the hospital was selected by matching to the Test patients by stage of disease, gender and several other criteria.

The group of TB patients, who took micronutrients in addition to conventional treatment, experienced significant health improvements. Compared to patients on drugs alone, patients on drugs plus micronutrients had significant healing of the lung, reduced drug side effects (allergies or toxic allergic reactions), complete disappearance of TB-associated inflammation and fever, and significant reduction of coughing and liver enlargement. The patients on the vitamin program experienced full recovery, which was 2-3 weeks faster. ...hide content

HIV/AIDS

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has reached epidemic proportions in developing countries and threatens to eradicate large segments of the population unless an immediate and effective solution is found to reversing the course of the disease.

Current treatment modality involving the use of costly and toxic antiretroviral drugs is insufficient and ineffective in meeting this challenge as it is based on the singular theory that AIDS is caused by infection with the retrovirus HIV, when it has been recognized that other factors, especially malnutrition or micronutrient deficiency are intricately linked to the genesis of AIDS. read more...

Thus, specific micronutrient abnormalities are very common in patients with HIV or AIDS and nutritional deficiency is an important underlying factor predisposing individuals to acquire immune deficiency, specifically in developing countries on the African continent. More than 2.0 million AIDS patients die annually worldwide; in Africa alone, where malnutrition is highly prevalent in this afflicted population, approximately two-thirds of the global HIV-infected population resides there. Hence, a comprehensive approach utilizing nutritional intervention is required to successfully treat this deadly disease.

This is the approach we have adopted to enable a natural means of controlling AIDS that provides an affordable, nontoxic and practical solution for treating the undernourished populations of the developing world afflicted with this disease. ...read less

Research conducted using micronutrients has revealed several ways in which micronutrients can help to fight AIDS:

  1. Micronutrients such as vitamin C and N-acetyl-cysteine suppress the multiplication of HIV in chronically and latently infected cells 1-4 and decrease viral load in HIV-infected and AIDS patients.5, 6
  2. Micronutrients can enhance white blood cell production and improve the immune system to counteract other infective agents or cofactors.7, 8
  3. Micronutrients consisting of multivitamin supplement or broad-spectrum mixture of essential nutrients can enhance helper T-cell count and/or help reduce risk of progression to AIDS.9, 10
  4. Our more recent in vitro study evaluating the individual and combined anti-HIV action of nutrients has shown that a mixture consisting of vitamin C, green tea extract, amino acids and trace minerals was more potent than individual nutrients in suppressing HIV production from chronically and latently infected cells.11
  5. A micronutrient program consisting of vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients can help reverse the clinical symptoms of AIDS that determine the course of the disease.12-14 Initial findings from our pilot project in Khayelitsha, South Africa showing how micronutrients can reverse the course of AIDS can be found here.
  6. The micronutrient supplement started in Khayelitsha, was also rolled out in KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape and Free State by SANCO. From all 4 regions, 813 participants who took the micronutrient supplement completed all 3 examinations and questionnaires. Results showed that daily micronutrient supplementation was associated with statistically significant reduction in severity of: 
  • AIDS-defining symptoms including fever, chills, sweating and cough
  • Specific clinical symptoms such as colds and flues, unusual thirst, vomiting and nausea
  • Other physical symptoms including blurred vision, skin bruises, irregular heartbeat and gum bleeding
  • Pain symptoms such as numbness of extremities, joint pain, and headaches

A detailed summary of a community health micronutrient program conducted in different townships of South Africa can be found here.

More information on the benefits of vitamins in fighting HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis can be seen here.

Clinical benefits of micronutrients in HIV/AIDS documented in several other peer-reviewed published studies are summarized here.

References Cited

  1. Harakeh S, Jariwalla RJ and Pauling L, Proc. Natl. Acad Sci USA 1990; 87: 7245-9
  2. Harekeh S and Jariwalla RJ, Am J Clin Nutr 1991; 54: 1231S-1235S
  3. Harakeh S and Jariwalla RJ, Supplement to Nutrition, 1995; 11: 684-687
  4. Roederer M et al., Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 1990; 87: 4884
  5. Allard J. et al., AIDS 1998; 12: 1653-1659
  6. Muller F. et al., Eur J Clin Invest 2000; 30: 905-914
  7. Beisel WR, Am J Clin Nutr 1982; 35: 415
  8. Watson RR, Nutrition, disease resistance, and immunity. New York, Marcel Dekker, 1984.
  9. Tang AM et al., AIDS 2005; 19: 847-861
  10. Kaiser J et al., JAIDS 2006; 42(5): 523-528
  11. Jariwalla RJ, Gangapurkar B, Pandit A, Kalinovsky T, Niedzwiecki A, Rath M, Molecular Medicine Reports 2010, in press
  12. Jariwalla RJ, Niedzwiecki A, Rath M, The Commonwealth Health Ministers Book 2007; 4: 187-189
  13. Jariwalla RJ, Niedzwiecki A and Rath MR, in “Botanical Medicine in Clinical Practice” (R. R. Watson & V. R. Preedy, Eds), 2008; pp 203-12. CAB International, London, UK
  14. Jariwalla RJ, Niedzwiecki A and Rath M, in "Bioactive Foods in Promoting Health" (R. R. Watson and V. R. Preedy, Eds), 2009; pp 323-342. Oxford: Academic Press

 

Cholesterol

Dr. Rath's groundbreaking discovery about the nutritional origin of coronary heart disease (“vitamin C-scurvy-heart disease” connection) also explains that elevated blood cholesterol levels are not the main cause of heart disease, but the consequence of biological dysfunction of the arterial walls and ongoing cardiovascular disease. 

Today pharmaceutical medicine focuses on promoting chemical drugs (especially statins) to reduce blood cholesterol levels without an understanding of the biological connection between structurally damaged arterial walls and elevated cholesterol blood levels.  Dr Rath’s Cellular Medicine not only explains this phenomenon but also offers a possibility of a natural control of the high cholesterol problem.  read more...

Dr Rath’s discovery logically explains that the impaired integrity of the blood vessel walls and their need for reinforcement and repair is the main cause why cholesterol production in the body’s cells increases and its blood levels become elevated. Dr Rath’s “scurvy-heart disease connection” explains that cholesterol carrying lipoproteins (LDL and Lp-a) are one of the most effective biological “repair” molecules  because their properties can deposit in the structurally weakened areas of the arteries similar to “mortar” patching structurally damaged bricks in the wall. If the underlying cause of arterial dysfunction, which is micronutrient deficiency, in particular the lack of vitamin C, is not addressed and damage continues then more and more cholesterol molecules enter the artery wall lesions. With time, this triggers various pathological responses and leads to the formation of arterial deposits and a risk of heart disease or stroke.

The connection between loss of vitamin C production, structural damage in the vascular wall and elevated blood cholesterol levels that was discovered by Dr. Rath about 20 years ago ihas been gaining an increasing scientific support. Among others it was independently confirmed by the work of Maeda et al. by using genetically modified mice which, similar to humans, have lost an ability of endogenous production of vitamin C.  ...read less

The relationship between cholesterol production and vascular wall structure proposed by Dr Rath provides logical explanations to many still opened questions in cardiology which can’t be answered by conventional medicine, for example:

Q: Why cholesterol deposits are predominantly formed in the coronary blood vessels, not veins? Q: Why cholesterol deposits are predominantly formed in the coronary blood vessels, not veins?

A: Cells building arterial walls have particularly high demands for micronutrients to support optimum bio-energy production and maintain integrity of the blood vessels..  Due to high mechanical stress of the pumping heart muscle and the pressure of blood forced through the arteries, nutritional deficiencies and structural impairments primarily affect the blood vessels of the heart (coronary arteries).  This is why blood “repair factors” such as cholesterol carrying lipoproteins (LDL and Lp-a) are deposited in these weakened areas but not along the entire length of the vascular system.  ...hide content

Q: What is the role of secondary blood risk factors other than cholesterol (i.e., homocysteine, high glucose) Q: What is the role of secondary blood risk factors other than cholesterol (i.e., homocysteine, high glucose)

A: Many of them function as biological “repair” factors compensating for weakened connective tissue and arterial dysfunction (i.e. by facilitating collagen cross-links).  ...hide content

Q: Why coronary heart disease is the most frequent cause of death in humans while it is practically unknown in the animal world? Q: Why coronary heart disease is the most frequent cause of death in humans while it is practically unknown in the animal world?

A: All animals, with only a few exceptions, produce large quantities of vitamin C in their bodies (2- 20 grams /day) to support optimum collagen production necessary for maintaining healthy and elastic blood vessels. High level of endogenous vitamin C production protects animal arteries from damage and development of atherosclerotic deposits. This is why animals do not die of heart attacks, even if some of them, such as bears, have very high blood cholesterol levels (600 mg/dl). In contrast , humans lost the ability of vitamin C production and its daily dietary intake is often insufficient  to assure optimum vascular health. (Human RDA for vitamin C is 60-80 mg/day). ...hide content

Practical consequences of the new understanding of the role of cholesterol in cardiovascular health

Cellular Medicine provides the basis for developing the most comprehensive micronutrient based approaches for optimizing cholesterol metabolism in our body. These approaches aim primarily at increasing biological stability of the blood vessel walls as a causative factor for abnormal cholesterol levels. In addition, they include natural approaches to optimize cholesterol synthesis and its utilization in the body.

Cellular medicine applies the principle of biological synergy between natural components for achieving increased effectiveness with using moderate doses of micronutrients.

 

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"The key natural synergy components essential in optimizing blood vessel function and cholesterol metabolism" The key natural synergy components essential in optimizing blood vessel function and cholesterol metabolism are:

1.Healthy function of the arteries: 

Nutrients such as Vitamin C, lysine, and proline support optimum collagen formation and its structure which is needed for the natural healing of the artery walls and reducing demands for “repair” factors. 

2.Optimum cholesterol synthesis in the liver is naturally regulated by vitamin C. 

This nutrient can decrease the activity of an enzyme, HMGCoA reductase, which regulates the rate of cholesterol production. In this aspect, vitamin C and highly promoted pharmaceutical drugs – statins – target the same enzyme. Vitamin C works as a “natural statin” without causing the severe side effects associated with this class of drugs.

3.Other blood risk factors. 

Synergy of Vitamin B complex, betaine and other nutrients is important for supporting metabolism of methionine, thereby optimizing homocysteine synthesis and its blood levels. 

4.Biological energy for the cells building the cardiovascular system. 

Fatty acids are the primary source of bio-energy for the heart muscle and arterial walls. Carnitine is essential for optimum conversion of fatty acids into cellular energy. 

The effectiveness of micronutrient synergy in optimizing cholesterol and triglycerides blood levels has been confirmed in our pilot clinical trials. ...hide content

 

Cholesterol production

The main cholesterol sources in the body are its internal production and diet. Our liver is the main organ producing cholesterol (about 80%), although the intestines, adrenal glands and reproductive organs also contribute to cholesterol production. Synthesis of cholesterol molecules in our body’s cells is a multi-step process where two small carbon-containing molecules (acetyl CoA and acetocetyl CoA) are bound together to form 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl CoA (HMG-CoA) by the action of an enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. The activity of this enzyme is important as it determines how much cholesterol is produced in the body’s cells. read more...

Pharmaceutical drugs, statins, which inhibit the HMGCo-A reductase in the body are heavily promoted and widely prescribed for artificial lowering of cholesterol production and its blood levels. However the action of these drugs is associated with many, often dangerous, side effects. Some of these relate to the fact that statins inhibit production of other important biological molecules, such as Coenzyme Q10 (Co-Q-10), sex hormones, steroid hormones, and vitamin D. The most frequent side effects of statins are muscle, liver and kidney damage, risk of thrombosis, developing mental problems, cancer and many others.

The HMGCoA reductase activity and cholesterol production can be naturally regulated by vitamin C. However, information about the cholesterol-lowering effects of vitamin C in synergistic combination with other nutrients such as niacin (vitamin B3) and other micronutrients is largely ignored. ...read less

Importance of cholesterol in the body

Cholesterol plays a vital role in optimum structure and function of all cell membranes, in the synthesis of bile acids that break down ingested fats and it is essential for the production of steroid hormones. These hormones such as cortisone and aldosterone regulate blood pressure, affect the immune and inflammatory responses and play other functions.  Production of other cholesterol-dependent hormones such as male and female sex hormones (testosterone and estrogen) affects sexual development and fertility. Furthermore, cholesterol is required for production of internal vitamin D, which in turn is essential for several biochemical processes including bone mineralization among others. Most importantly, cholesterol is critical for the proper functioning of nervous tissue and brain cells (neurons).

Cholesterol transport in the blood

Cholesterol does not dissolve in water, therefore it is packed together with other fatty substances which are wrapped around by a protein forming lipoprotein molecule. In this form it is carried in the bloodstream to be processed by the cells. These lipoproteins have different names, such as VLDL, LDL, and HDL, etc., which indicate their density , (i.e., VL = very light; L= light, H=heavy). The density of lipoproteins depends on their ratio of the fat to the protein component. As such, VLDL  - (very low density lipoproteins) have the most fat and therefore have the lowest density (they float on the surface). The molecules which have the lowest fat contents are HDL (high density lipoprotein). The LDL (low density lipoprotein) is intermediate to VLDL and HDL in respect to fat to protein ratio. read more...

VLDL: Is a form of lipoprotein that transports cholesterol and triglyceride molecules through the blood. VLDL readily converts into LDL (low density lipoproteins) for further transport of cholesterol, which is considered as a major pro-atherogenic lipoprotein.

LDL: This lipoprotein is also referred to as “bad cholesterol” because it carries excessive cholesterol to the tissues where it can accumulate and may lead to atherosclerotic plaque formation. In the case of excessive accumulation of cholesterol inside cells and in some genetic diseases, LDL is blocked from entering the cells and its elevated levels are detected in the blood. Therefore conventional medicine considers it as the major risks for atherogenesis. Conventional approaches ignore the connection between cholesterol metabolism and weakened vascular walls. According to medical guidelines issued in 2003, the optimum blood LDL levels should be <100 mg/dl.

HDL: Also known as “good cholesterol,” HDL carries cholesterol and fat molecules away from the arteries and plaques deposits and transports them back to the liver. Since HDL has the potential to remove cholesterol from arterial plaque deposits, the more HDL is in the  bloodstream, the more cholesterol can be removedfrom the plaque.  HDL levels lower than 40 mg/dl are considered a higher risk of atherosclerosis. The average HDL-cholesterol for men is about 45 mg/dL, and for women it is about 55 mg/dL.

LDL/HDL ratio: The ratio of LDL (bad cholesterol) to HDL (good cholesterol) provides a clearer picture of an individual’s risk of the development of atherosclerosis than the amounts of individual lipoproteins. On average it is recommended to target LDL/HDL ratio to be about 4.5, although ideal ratio is considered to be 2 or 3.

Lipoprotein (a): Lipoprotein (a) is a lesser known lipoprotein yet it has more potential for developing atherosclerosis. This cholesterol carrier is composed of an LDL molecule bound together with an additional protein Apolipoprotein-a (Apo-a). The presence of Apo-a makes the entire molecule very sticky and therefore more likely to attach to various structures, including weakened blood vessel walls. Most of the laboratories consider normal values of lipoprotein (a) to be below 15 mg/dl. Lipoprotein (a) contributes more than LDL to plaque build up in the blood vessels. According to Dr. Rath's research, the lipoprotein (a) molecule is ten times more dangerous a risk factor for atherosclerosis, heart attack and stroke than LDL and it can be regulated naturally by vitamin C.

Triglycerides (TG): Dietary fats are the main source of triglycerides in the blood. Since cholesterol and other fats cannot dissolve in blood, dietary fatty acids are stored and transported in the form of triglycerides and for the same reason they are considered as a risk factor of atherosclerosis. Conventional medicine considers normal triglyceride levels should be less than 150mg/dl. ...read less

Hypertension

Dr. Rath’s Cellular Medicine has identified the most frequent cause of high blood pressure as a chronic deficiency of specific cellular nutrients in the millions of cells building the blood vessel walls. an insufficient supply or imbalance of key micronutrients can lead to persistent vascular spasms and thickening of the blood vessel walls and can eventually elevate blood pressure.

Some of these nutrients are needed for the production of nitric oxide (NO) which is called the “vascular relaxing factor.”and decreases vascular wall tension and keeps blood pressure in normal range. Other nutrients are essential for maintaining an optimum contraction and relaxation cycle of the smooth muscle cells and  elasticity of the blood vessels. Synergistic action of these nutrients is needed to keep blood pressure within a normal range.

These nutrients include the amino acid arginine, which is the source of the blood vessel “relaxing factor,” as well as lysine, vitamin C, magnesium, calcium, potassium, coenzyme Q10 and other micronutrients.

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common disorder and one of the most important risk factors for heart disease. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that almost 600 million people worldwide suffer from elevated blood pressure. In most cases conventional medicine fails to recognize what causes this condition.

What is blood pressure? What is blood pressure?

Our blood circulates throughout the body forced by the constant pumping of the heart.  The measurable force with which the blood flows throughout the arteries is referred as ”blood pressure.”

The pressure of the blood depends on many factors:

1) The pumping force of the heart: If the heart pumps with more strength than normal, more blood is pumped into the arteries and blood pressure rises.
2) Volume of blood: If the volume of blood increases it leads to higher blood pressure 
3) Diameter and elasticity of the blood vessels: Under certain conditions, the diameter of the blood vessels can narrow or expand and this is linked directly to a rise or fall in blood pressure. Optimum elasticity and flexibility of the arteries is especially important for occasional blood pressure increases because elastic arteries prevent the pressure from rising too high.

Blood pressure is measured with a blood pressure gauge, and its value is expressed in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) as two readings:

a) First reading: Systolic pressure describes the pressure of blood on the blood vessel walls as the heart contracts and forces the blood into the arteries (or when the heart muscle contracts).

b) Second reading: Diastolic pressure describes the pressure of blood on the blood vessel walls as the heart relaxes (between beats).

Medical guidelines consider that optimal blood pressure value should stay within the range of 120/80 mmHg. However, a blood pressure reading below 130/85 mmHg is still considered normal but over 140/90 mmHg is diagnosed as too high. Blood pressure is usually higher in older people as the consequence of stiffening and hardening of the vascular walls that occurs with age. Blood pressure generally rises and falls throughout the day in a cyclic rhythm and is influenced by many factors, such as exercise and emotional stress (such as being in a doctor's office).

In most cases high blood pressure does not  exhibit any symptoms and it can be detected only after it is measured.  Several blood pressure readings must be taken on different days to determine a high blood pressure diagnosis. ...hide content

Causes of high blood pressure Causes of high blood pressure

Conventional medicine distinctions between primary (essential) and secondary hypertension:Causes of high blood pressure

- Primary hypertension, diagnosed as “essential ‘hypertension” means that the underlying causes of the condition are not known. It is diagnosed in more than 90% of elevated blood pressure cases.

- Secondary hypertension can develop as a result of kidney disease, hormonal disorders or hereditary factors.

There are many other factors that can increase the risk of high blood pressure and include complications during pregnancy, smoking, being overweight, stress, pharmaceutical drugs or high salt intake. At the same time, conventional medicine has ignored micronutrient deficiencies as a cause of high blood pressure, but this is slowly changing. ...hide content

Symptoms and long-term consequences of high blood pressure Symptoms and long-term consequences of high blood pressure

Since high blood pressure does not always present distinct symptoms it often remains unrecognized. However, some people experience symptoms indicative of high blood pressure, such as early morning headaches, dizziness, nose bleeds, tinnitus, palpitations and feeling a strong pulsing in the chest.

People with high blood pressure are at risk of developing other health problems, because persistently elevated blood pressure puts an additional stress on the artery walls. Prolonged constriction impairs elasticity and weakens the (?artery) wall structure increasing the risk of damage. As a result, cholesterol and other fatty molecules carried in the blood can deposit in the damaged areas, leading to atherosclerosis and a risk of heart attack or stroke. Constrictions and obstructions of blood flow can also occur in the arteries in other organs, such as the kidneys and the eyes, causing additional damage. This is why kidney dysfunction and vision problems (retinopathy) are frequent consequences of high blood pressure.

In addition, increased blood pressure puts an additional strain on the heart muscle which has to work harder to pump the blood. This constant stress on the heart can lead to thickening of the heart muscle thereby compromising cardiovascular system function. ...hide content

Conventional medicine Conventional medicine

Conventional medicine ignores the underlying cause of high blood pressure in about 90% of the cases because it focuses on controlling the symptoms rather than addressing the source of the problem. General recommendations often include following a healthy diet, a regular exercise program, maintaining healthy weight, smoking cessation, relaxation and limiting salt and alcohol consumption.

If these measures fail to lower blood pressure, drugs such as diuretics, beta-blockers and vasodilators (ACE inhibitors, calcium antagonists) are usually prescribed. Studies have shown that antihypertensive drugs are one of the most heavily prescribed medications in the United States. With drug costs rising at least 12% per year since 1993, patients, especially the elderly, can end up spending thousands of dollars a year on prescription drugs to control their blood pressure. While the majority of these drugs (including diuretics, calcium channel blockers, and ACE inhibitors) can lower blood pressure they do not eliminate its cause and have to be taken for life. The side effects of these prescription drugs can often lead to the development of secondary health problems such as depression or edema and increased risk of hyperglycemia (high blood glucose), tinnitus (constant ringing or buzzing in the ears), kidney damage, and heart failure

Secondary high blood pressure develops as a result of defined health problems. For example, if hypertension develops as a consequence of kidney disease, the elimination of kidney problems may lead to lowering or normalizing blood pressure without taking blood pressure medication. ...hide content

Cellular medicine Cellular medicine

Cellular Medicine defines that health and disease are determined at the level of the billions of cells that build our tissues, organs and the entire body.  It focuses on the cause of disease and the prevention and natural correction of many health problems.  All the cells in the body require sufficient amounts of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other nutrients to function optimally. Most nutrients are bio-catalysts of thousands of enzymatic reactions in every cell and if they are not provided in optimum amounts, the cells, and consequently the organs, begin to malfunction leading to the onset of disease.

According to Cellular Medicine, in most cases high blood pressure develops as a result of chronic deficiency of vitamins and other essential nutrients in the cells building the arterial walls.  This deficiency can lead to a persistent spasm of the blood vessels and their inability to respond to a pulsatile blood flow, all of which can increase blood pressure.  Some of these nutrients, such as the amino acid arginine are needed for the production of biological ”relaxing” factors.  These factors help in decreasing artery wall spasms  allowing them to expand to their internal diameter and thus lower blood pressure.

The role of specific individual micronutrients in affecting blood pressure has been known.

The most effective primary approach to maintaining optimum blood pressure is by eliminating specific micronutrient deficiencies, through synergistic effects of specific micronutrients, including the components of fruits and vegetables. This has been confirmed in our laboratory studies conducted with cells.

We also evaluated the effects of micronutrient in a clinical pilot study. This study was conducted for a period of 32 weeks and involved patients suffering from hypertension. The initial average blood pressure measured at the beginning of the study was 167/97, and after 32 weeks of supplementation with cellular nutrients the average blood pressure readings decreased to 142/83. This shows that the synergistic action of selected micronutrients was effective in decreasing systolic blood pressure by 16% and diastolic blood pressure by 15% without any side effects. ...hide content

Selected Studies in Hypertension

Bioflavonoids Effectively Inhibit Smooth Muscle Cell-Mediated Contraction of Collagen Matrix Induced by Angiotensin II

V. Ivanov, M.W. Roomi, T. Kalinovsky, A. Niedzwiecki, M. Rath
Matthias Rath Research Institute, 1260 Memorex Drive, Santa Clara, CA 95050
Published in: The Journal of Cardiovascular Pharmacology,- 2005, 46(5):570-6

Bioflavonoids participate in the regulation of SMC-mediated contraction and have a strong potential in counteracting pathophysiological effects of ATII. Bioflavonoid activity depends on structural characteristics and can be related to extracellular matrix integrity.

View Abstract

Mixture Of Natural Nutrients Reduces Collagen Matrix Contraction Driven By Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells

V. Ivanov, S. Ivanova, M.W. Roomi, A. Niedzwiecki, M. Rath
Matthias Rath Research Institute, 1260 Memorex Drive, Santa Clara, CA 95050
Presented at: International Academy of Cardiology, 12th World Heart Congress, New Trends in Research, Diagnosis, and Treatment Vancouver, B.C., Canada, July 16-19, 2005
Published in: The Journal of Heart Disease; vol 4(1): 99, Abstract #394

Impaired arterial smooth muscle contractility plays a leading role in the development of systemic hypertension. Structural changes, such as occlusive atherosclerotic plaque formation, and functional changes, such as hormonal disturbances, play roles in pathophysiological mechanisms of altered arterial contractility. Accelerated gel contraction was accompanied by elevated secretion of MMPs into cell culture media. We found that purified polyphenols and catechins counteracted SMC-dependent collagen gel contraction; this gel relaxation effect was further enhanced by addition of ascorbic acid and amino acids lysine, arginine, cysteine and proline to green tea extract. A reduction in gel contraction correlated with decreased MMP expression. These results are significant as they indicated that nutrients can effectively counteract angiotensin-mediated excessive stimulation of arterial tissue contraction and have therapeutic potential in hypertension.

View Abstract

Bioflavonoids Effectively Inhibit Smooth Muscle Cell-Mediated Contraction of Collagen Matrix Induced by Angiotensin II

V. Ivanov, S. Ivanova, M.W. Roomi, A. Niedzwiecki, M. Rath
Presented at: 5th Annual Conference of Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis and Vascular Biology
San Francisco, CA, May 6-8, 2004 

Plant-derived bioflavonoids have been recognized to support arterial wall structural integrity and interfere with a variety of pro-atherosclerotic stimuli. This study examined the effect of various bioflavonoids on angiotensin II-stimulated contraction by human aortic smooth muscle cells (SMC) embedded in a three-dimensional collagen matrix. Bioflavonoid inhibition of SMC contraction was found to be dependent upon structural characteristics with EGCG and quercetin showing the greatest inhibition at 97% and 120%, respectively. These results are significant since they imply that plant derived bioflavonoids have a great potential in controlling hypertension by counteracting pathophysiological effects of angiotensin.

View Abstract

Heart Failure

Cellular Medicine has identified the most frequent cause of heart failure as a long-term deficiency of vitamins and other essential nutrients in the millions of heart muscle cells. These cells are responsible for the contraction of the heart muscle and the optimum pumping of blood throughout the body.

Heart failure is a serious condition which develops when the heart pumps insufficient amounts of blood throughout the body rendering it unable to support its normal functions. Heart failure is manifested as fatigue, shortness of breath, edema (swelling from water retention) and it lowers the quality of life of anyone it affects This disease affects more than 5 million people in the US. It is estimated that more than 15 million people worldwide suffer from heart failure which, which together with malignant cancers, is responsible for more than half the deaths in people 45 and older. About 30-40% of patients die from heart failure within one year of diagnosis.

Our cardiovascular system

Heart failure is a problem affecting the heart muscle. The human heart is a hollow muscular organ about the size of an adult’s fist. It is divided into four chambers: two smaller ones, the right and left atriums, and two larger chambers, the right and left ventricles. All four chambers are separated by the cardiac valves. The heart, together with the network of arteries, veins and capillaries, forms the cardiovascular system.

The key functions of the cardiovascular system are:

  • Distribution of oxygen-rich blood (and nutrients, hormones and other metabolites) throughout the body to the organs and all cells.
  • Collection and return of oxygen-depleted blood (containing various waste and metabolic products) to the heart for cleansing and re-oxygenation.

The heart has its own nourishment system The heart has its own nourishment system

Our life depends on the continuous pumping of the heart distributing and collecting blood throughout the body. The entire cardiac muscle has two large coronary arteries and a network of smaller vessels that assure the delivery of blood to support the production of cellular bio-energy and the heart beat. A narrowing or obstruction of a coronary artery lumen decreases blood supply to that specific area of the muscle causing its dysfunction and angina (chest pain caused when the muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood). If the blood flow in the  coronary artery becomes completely blocked the affected tissue dies resulting in a heart attack or death. ...hide content

How to recognize heart failure How to recognize heart failure

It is a well-known fact, confirmed in numerous clinical studies, that deprivation of cardiac energy is the most important factor in developing heart failure. A consequence of weak heart contractions and impaired blood circulation is less oxygen and nutrients are delivered to the tissues and metabolic products cannot be removed effectively. This condition is manifested as general fatigue or dizziness, bluish discoloration of the skin (cyanosis), liver congestion or indigestion. Also, with impaired blood flow to the kidneys water cannot be removed from the blood and it accumulates in the tissues in areas such as in the legs causing edema or in the abdomin causing ascites. Impaired blood circulation in the lungs can lead to shortness of breath, asthma, pulmonary edema and an inability to perform normal life functions. ...hide content

Conventional therapy in heart failure Conventional therapy in heart failure

Conventional medicine recognizes a deficiency of cellular bioenergy as critical in the development of heart failure. The idea that impaired heart function and development of heart failure are associated with biological energy insufficiency was presented as early as 1939. Heart failure is often decribed in medical literature as “an engine out of fuel” However, therapeutic approaches in heart failure do not focus on increasing cellular bioenergy but instead on limiting its expenditure. Therefore, the majority of pharmaceutical drugs prescribed for heart failure have an “energy sparing” effect for the heart muscle. Drugs such as beta blockers, calcium antagonists or ACE inhibitors lower heart contractions or promote blood vessel dilatation decreasing their resistance. Unfortunately, these drugs do not eliminate the cause of these problems, and in the long term they impair the functions of other organs and generate serious side effects. Other drugs, such as diuretics can further aggravate heart failure and are used to alleviate edema by increasing urine production. Although  diuretics help decrease edema  by collecting water from tissues they also accelerate the removal of vital water-soluble micronutrients such as vitamin C, B vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that support bioenergy production.  Since vitamin deficiency is already a cause of impaired heart function, diuretics further aggravate the disease.

Patients with heart failure, especially the elderly, are prone to nutritional deficiencies due to inadequate food intake, malabsorption, accompanying diseases and nutrient loss due to the intake of various pharmaceutical drugs.

For many heart failure patients drugs do not help and a heart transplant remains the only option, however, many patients die waiting for an operation or do not live long after the transplant procedure. ...hide content

Cellular medicine Cellular medicine

Cellular Medicine focuses on the cause, prevention and natural correction of many health problems at the level of the billions of cells building our bodies. All cells require sufficient amounts of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other nutrients to function optimally. Most of these nutrients function as biocatalysts of thousands of enzymatic reactions in every cell and if they are not provided in optimum amounts, the cells and consequently the organs  begin to malfunction leading to diseases.

Heart failure develops most frequently because the heart is the most mechanically active organ in the body and  has high requirements for vitamins and other bioenergy-generating nutrients. Suboptimal intake of these micronutrients impairs bioenergy production leading to impaired heart pumping function, the development of heart failure, irregular heartbeat and other forms of cardiovascular disease. ...hide content

Nutrient synergy Nutrient synergy

All cellular functions in the body are based on synergy and the cooperation between nutrients is the basis of metabolism. Cellular medicine has introduced a new approach to health by researching and defining synergistically acting essential nutrient teams as the most effective way to assure balanced cellular metabolism.

Cellular bioenergy cannot be generated effectively without specific micronutrients acting as catalysts of numerous Krebs Cycle enzymes and natural intermediates of the mitochondrial respiratory chain.

Our research has shown that the synergistic action of specific cellular nutrients, especially vitamin C, the amino acids carnitine, lysine, and proline, magnesium, coenzyme Q10, and other essential nutrients, combined in the right proportions is the right “fuel” supporting the proper function of heart muscle cells. Deficiencies of these essential nutrients impair the pumping performance of the heart, resulting in shortness of breath, edema, and fatigue. ...hide content

Key micronutrients for optimum heart health Key micronutrients for optimum heart health

Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12 and Biotin are important energy carriers in cellular metabolism. Vitamin B1 is critical for the optimum function of the cardiac muscle cells. People who are taking diuretics are particularly affected by a shortage of B vitamins and other water-soluble micronutrients.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is the key component in the energy formation cycle in the mitochondria, the power source of the cells. An optimum supply of CoQ10 is especially important for the cardiac muscle cells because of their high demands for bioenergy. Muscle tissues are the richest source of this nutrient, therefore vegetarians are at risk of  CoQ10 deficiency. CoQ10 also has antioxidant properties.

Carnitine can be produced in the body’s cells from the amino acids Lysine and Methionine. Lysine is not manufactured in the body and since it comes only from diet, deficiency is likely. In addition, Carnitine production also requires Vitamin C, Iron, Vitamin B6 and Niacin. Carnitine is essential for transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria where they are burned for energy. Its role is very important because fatty acids are the primary energy source for the heart muscle.

Vitamin C is needed for the synthesis of Carnitine and is an important mediator of energy production in the cells. Vitamin C is the universal antioxidant in the body and protects cells and all metabolic components against damage from oxidation.

Vitamin E protects cell membranes and fatty components against damage from free radicals. Excessive oxidation stress has been associated with aging, tissue damage and various diseases.

Taurine is an amino acid produced from Cysteine and vitamin B6. Especially low Taurine levels have been detected in people after they have had a heart attack. Taurine is highly utilized by the heart and helps to stabilize cell membranes. It is also very important for optimum heart function and maintaining regular heart beat. ...hide content

Clinical confirmation of nutrient synergy in heart failure patients Clinical confirmation of nutrient synergy in heart failure patients

These significant findings were confirmed in our clinical studies conducted with patients who suffered from heart failure.

In one of the pilot studies heart performance was measured by echocardiography (ultrasound examination of the heart) and a treadmill test. The synergistic action of specific cellular nutrients improved heart pumping function on average by 20% after six months of their intake. In addition, there was observed a 100% improvement in severe fatigue and a 70% improvement in shortness of breath.

The other clinical pilot trial in heart failure patients measured health improvements using the NYHA grading system that measures the quality of life. NYHA uses a 0 to 4 scale grade: Grade 0 - no symptoms of heart insufficiency, Grade 4 - severe condition in which patients are confined to bed.

At the beginning of this study, seven out of  ten patients suffered significant impairment of cardiovascular health (Class 3 on the NYHA scale). Three other patients reported moderate limitation of their physical activity (Class 2 on the NYHA scale).

After six months of having the nutrient synergy program added to their usual regimen, eight out of ten patients reported improvement in their health condition by one or more grades on NYHA scale. As a result, after six months of nutrient supplementation half of the patients could lead normal lives again without any discomfort, weakness or associated arrhythmia. ...hide content

 

Further details on the clinical studies can be viewed here.

Arrhythmia

According to Dr. Rath’s Cellular Medicine, irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) most often develops as a result of a chronic deficiency of specific micronutrients in the heart muscle cells causing insufficient bio-energy production in so called “electrical heart cells” responsible for the generation and timely delivery of electrical stimuli to the heart muscle.  Dysfunction of these cells can result in irregular heartbeat. Therefore the primary approach to normalizing heartbeat should include a supply of specific micronutrients critical in biological energy production in the cells, such as vitamin C, B vitamins, Coenzyme Q10, lysine, magnesium, calcium and potassium among others.

Regulation of heartbeatRegulation of heartbeat

The human heart at rest beats approximately 60-80 times a minute (86,400 times daily) and contracts approximately 100,000 times daily pumping about 10,000 liters (2,642 gallons) of blood through the cardiovascular system. The electrical impulse that makes the cardiac muscle beat originates in the specialized cells located in the sinus node. These specialized cells form of a type of living pacemaker which spontaneously generates a rhythm of the heart’s regular contractions and transfers the tempo to the rest of the heart muscle.

Arrhythmia, manifested by irregular heart contractions is a disorder that often develops independently and can occur at any age. It often appears after a heart attack or in patients suffering from heart failure. Worldwide more than 100 million people suffer from this problem, which can vary in its severity ...hide content

How to recognize arrhythmiaHow to recognize arrhythmia

Arrhythmia  is caused by disturbances in the creation or conduction of the electrical impulse that is responsible for a regular heartbeat. There are many types of arrhythmias and some of them are harmless, while others carry a risk of a sudden death.

Arrhythmia can develop as a consequence of coronary heart disease, a heart attack, excessive use of alcohol, smoking, viral infection, or thyroid disease.  Arrhythmia can be triggered by certain pharmaceutical drugs, by a mineral imbalance and excessive physical strain. In many cases the underlying cause of arrhythmia is unknown and is medically defined as “paroxysmal arrhythmia.”

Episodes of heart palpitations, or racing or irregular heartbeats, can be accompanied by drowsiness, dizziness, confusion and speech disorders. Serious symptoms can worsen existing diseases (i.e., angina pectoris and heart failure). In extreme cases arrhythmia can result in sudden fatal cardiac arrest. ...hide content

Conventional approachesConventional approaches

Unfortunately conventional medicine does not look into micronutrient deficiencies as the underlying cause of impaired function of the heart’s electrical cells. Its therapeutic options are confined to treating the symptoms of disease. Beta-blockers and other drugs are used to normalize heartbeat, however their most frequent side effect is … arrhythmia. Slow form of arrhythmia with long pauses between heartbeats is treated by implanting a pacemaker. In more severe cases part of a cardiac muscle is burned (cauterization) in order to block disruptive electrical impulses. ...hide content

The Cellular medicine approach in arrhythmia involves biological synergyThe Cellular medicine approach in arrhythmia involves biological synergy

Cellular Medicine focuses on the causes, prevention and natural correction of many health problems at the level of billions of cells building our bodies.  All cells require sufficient amounts of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and other nutrients to function optimally. Most of these nutrients are biocatalysts of thousands of enzymatic reactions taking place in every cell and, if they are not provided in optimum amounts, the cells and consequently the organs start to malfunction, leading to diseases.

According to Cellular Medicine, in most cases irregular heart rhythm can develop as a result of a long-term deficiency of micronutrients that are needed to generate optimum quantities of biological energy required by the “electrical” heart cells. Therefore, the most effective approach to maintaining healthy heart rhythm is by assuring that these micronutrients are provided regularly and in optimal amounts.

Cellular Medicine has introduced the synergy-based approach as the most effective way of correcting micronutrient deficiencies while assuring metabolic balance in our body’s cells.   The use of a single nutrient can lead to either unmasking an underlying deficiency of other micronutrients or causes shift in metabolic balance towards an undesired level. The synergy approach is established on the fact that all cellular functions in the body are based on synergy and the cooperation between nutrients is the basis of metabolism. Therefore in our research we focus on defining and testing synergistically acting essential nutrient teams as the most effective way to assure balanced cellular metabolism. ...hide content

Key components of nutrient synergy for maintaining optimum heart healthKey components of nutrient synergy for maintaining optimum heart health

Vitamin B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B12 and biotin are important energy carriers in cellular metabolism.  Vitamin B1 is critical for the optimum function of the cardiac muscle cells. People who are taking diuretics are particularly affected by a shortage of B vitamins and other water-soluble micronutrients.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is the key component in the energy formation cycle in the mitochondria, the biological power source of the cells.  An optimum supply of CoQ10 is especially important for the cardiac muscle cells because of their high demands for bioenergy. Muscle tissues are the richest source of this nutrient, therefore vegetarians are at risk of  CoQ10 deficiency. CoQ10 also has antioxidant properties.

Carnitine can be produced in our body cells from the amino acids lysine and methionine. Lysine is not manufactured in our body and since it comes only from diet, its deficiency is likely. In addition, carnitine production requires vitamin C, iron, vitamin B6 and niacin. Carnitine is essential for transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria where they are burned for energy. Its role is very important because fatty acids are the primary energy source for the heart muscle.

Vitamin C is needed for carnitine production and is an important mediator of energy production in the cells. Vitamin C is the universal antioxidant in the body protecting cells and all metabolic components against damage from oxidation.

Vitamin E protects cell membranes and fatty components against damage from free radicals. Excessive free radical production has been associated with aging, tissue damage and various diseases.

Taurine is an amino acid produced from cysteine and vitamin B6. Especially low taurine levels have been detected in people after suffering a heart attack. Taurine is highly utilized by the heart and helps to stabilize cell membranes.  It is also very important for optimum heart function and maintaining regular heartbeat. ...hide content

Clinical confirmation of the benefits of nutrient synergy in arrhythmiaClinical confirmation of the benefits of nutrient synergy in arrhythmia

The health benefits of the micronutrient synergy approach in patients suffering from arrhythmia were confirmed in a double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial in 131 patients.  In this study the patients took the specific micronutrient composition in addition to their standard medication for a period of six months. The results achieved were statistically significant, which means that they were not due to chance.

The results of the clinical study showed that the synergistic action of specific cellular nutrients, especially vitamin C, CoQ10, the B-complex group, the amino acids lysine and carnitine, as well as calcium, magnesium, and other properly balanced nutrients, decreased arrhythmic episodes after six months of their use. About half of the patients (48% of study participants) were free of arrhythmic episodes, and approximately 70% of the participants experienced an improvement in their health condition. Even patients with more advanced stages of the disease showed improvements in this heart condition with longer use of the cellular nutrients.

The synergistic action of cellular nutrients also showed a significant effect in improving the general well-being of the patients, their vitality, and mental health status. (Total score: 90 in the vitamin group versus 47 in the placebo group.) ...hide content

 

Women Cancers

Breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in women, and is the third most common cancer worldwide. Breast cancer is second only to lung cancer as a cause of death in women. Incidences of and death from breast cancer are generally increasing throughout the world, primarily in the industrialized countries. The incidence of breast cancer increases with age, but the rate of this increase diminishes with menopause. There is no complete cure for cancer, and the five-year survival rate of patients with breast cancer stays at about 88%. read more...

Wide promotion and use of estrogen-based therapies have been implicated in an increased risk of breast cancer as well as ovarian and uterine cancer and other health problems. This was confirmed in the largest clinical study to date conducted in more than 16,000 women taking Hormone Replacement Therapy. This study was discontinued because of increased risk of developing breast cancer, heart disease and other problems.

Conventional medicine treats breast cancer with surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or hormonal therapy. These treatments are associated with numerous and often serious side effects and the recurrence of cancer, especially when cancer is diagnosed at later stages.

We have studied the effects of micronutrients on prevention, development and progression of breast cancer using different approaches.

In vitro studies have shown that a synergy of micronutrients has anti-tumor potential by inhibiting cell growth, MMP secretion and cancer cell invasion through Matrigel of both estrogen- positive (ER+) and estrogen-negative (ER-) cancer cell lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, respectively. The effectiveness of a combination of these nutrients in inhibiting the growth of MDA-MB-231 xenografted tumors in nude mice have been documented in vivo.

Micronutrients incorporated in the diet were also effective in preventing the development of chemically-induced breast cancer. We have observed that even  when these micronutrients were administered at the later stages of tumor growth (tumors were already established)  there was a dramatic decrease in tumor growth rate. Interestingly, the majority of tumors that developed under micronutrient supplementation were benign. ...read less

Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer of the female reproductive tract. It is currently the third leading cause of cancer death in women. With the introduction of Papanicolaous test screening for cervical cancer its rates has been declining in the the developed world. The incidence of cervical cancer is higher among women with a history of sexually transmitted diseases. read more...

Our in vitro studies have shown a great anti-cancer potential of the specific combination of micronutrients in cervical cancer. These nutrients were effective in inhibiting critical mechanisms involved in cancer development and spread, such as cell growth, MMP expression and invasion through extracellular matrix. ...read less

Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer, the deadliest of the gynecologic cancers, is the fifth leading cause of cancer death among U.S. women, due to metastasis. Currently, 50% of the women diagnosed with ovarian cancer die from it within five years. read more...

Our study results indicate that a synergistically acting micronutrient mixture is effective in inhibition of ovarian cancer cells growth and their invasion through connective tissue and it can completely curtail the secretion of MMPs by these cells. ...read less

Why are cancers of reproductive organs so frequent?

Estrogen plays an important role in tissue remodeling, such as the one occurring monthly during ovulation, as well as those associated with pregnancy or breastfeeding. The restructuring of connective tissue occurring in the breast, ovaries and uterus require secretion of collagen digesting enzymes, such as MMPs, plasmin and others. read more...These enzymes are needed for temporary dissolving of connective tissue (ie, releasing an egg from the ovary wall or formation of milk ducts in the breast). However, the activity of these enzymes remains under tight biological control so the destruction of the tissue does not continue.

Dr. Rath suggested that these body organs in which physiological functions involve enzymatic restructuring such as reproductive organs, are prone to developing aggressive cancers. In these organs, enzymatic activity can spin out of control facilitating the spread and invasion of abnormal cells in the body (For more information, please click here). ...read less

Relevant publications

Breast Cancer

See publication list

Cervical Cancer

See publication list

Ovarian Cancer

See publication list

Subcategories

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