INFLUENCE OF MAGNESIUM, CALCIUM, AND VITAMIN-C ON TUMOR-GROWTH IN MICE WITH BREAST-CANCER

Lymphocyte mediated cytotoxicity of tumor cells requires the establishment of a firm adhesion between lymphocyte and tumor cell. This occurs most efficiently in the presence of magnesium (Mg), but may also occur with calcium (Ca). To determine the value of oral supplements of Mg and Ca, and also of vitamin C (VC) on tumor growth, 70 C3H/HEJ mice, 5 to 6 weeks of age, were divided into groups being supplemented with Mg, Ca, Mg and Ca, VC, and controls. These supplements, added to the animals' water, gave concentrations of 2 mg/cc for Mg, 0.36 mg/cc for Ca, and 1 mg/cc for VC. Two weeks later, all animals were inoculated by trochar with equal pieces of C3HBA mouse mammary adenocarcinoma averaging 9.0 mg. Tumor size was measured at weekly intervals and animals were followed to death. Survival in those receiving Mg and Ca (mean 10.73 weeks) was statistically significantly longer than those receiving Mg alone, Ca alone, or controls, but not significantly longer than VC (mean 10.60 weeks), P < 0.05. The Mg and Ca group was able to tolerate greater tumor burdens as well (mean 4.69 cm), significantly higher than all other subgroups, P < 0.05. The importance of dietary Mg and Ca, and possibly VC, in increasing survival in mice with breast cancer appears to be demonstrated, explained perhaps by promoting optimum function of the immune system with the provision of adequate amount of cation for lymphocytolysis of tumor cells. © 1979.