Recently, IP6 has received much attention for its role in cancer prevention, and control of experimental tumor growth and progression. A striking, consistent and reproducible anticancer action of IP6 has been demonstrated in various experimental models. IP6 reduces cell proliferation, induces apoptosis and differentiation of malignant cells via PI3K, MAPK, PKC, AP-1 and NFkB. Enhanced natural killer (NK) cell activity, suppressed tumor angiogenesis and antioxidant properties also contribute to cancer inhibition.
Preliminary studies in humans and case reports have indicated that
IP6 is able to enhance the anticancer effect of conventional chemotherapy, control cancer metastases, and improve quality of life. A prospective, randomized, pilot clinical study showed that IP6 as an adjunctive therapy ameliorates the side effects and preserves quality of life in breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy