Leukemia cells use this well-known substance in energy drinks to grow faster

Taurine, a well-known component of energy drinks and protein shakes, also has a dark side. Research shows that some forms of leukemia use taurine as fuel to grow faster. Scientists at the Wilmot Cancer Institute discovered that this natural substance plays a key role in the development of aggressive blood cancers such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML).

Leukemia cells cannot produce taurine themselves but steal it from the bone marrow via a transport protein called SLC6A6. By blocking the uptake of taurine, the growth of cancer cells came to a complete halt. This research opens new possibilities for treatments, although it is still in an early stage.

While taurine is often seen as a performance enhancer, researchers warn against the use of taurine supplements in leukemia patients, as high doses can promote the growth of cancer cells.