Improving Chemotherapy to help in treating lung cancer

A new lung cancer treatment combines paclitaxel with filgrastim, vitamins, omega-3s, and probiotics to boost immunity, reduce chemo side effects, and improve patient outcomes.

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Inspiration

We were inspired by the high death rates and harsh side effects associated with lung cancer treatments. Our goal was to develop a method to reduce chemotherapy’s harm while boosting its effectiveness.

What it does

Our approach combines paclitaxel (Taxol), a chemotherapy drug, with filgrastim, vitamins C and E, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics. This mix aims to improve the immune system, protect the digestive system, and reduce chemotherapy side effects while fighting lung cancer more effectively.

How we built it

We started with research on chemotherapy and its side effects, then explored how immune-supportive compounds like vitamins, omega-3s, and probiotics could help. We selected paclitaxel for its effectiveness, and filgrastim for its role in producing white blood cells. Our concept was designed to be applied during early stages (1 and 2) of non-small cell lung cancer.

Challenges we ran into

We faced challenges in understanding complex cancer biology, selecting the most effective chemical combinations, and ensuring compatibility of all substances. Limited access to clinical data also made it hard to validate results.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We’re proud of identifying a potential protocol that could make chemotherapy more tolerable and effective. Developing a holistic treatment strategy that targets both the cancer and its side effects is a key achievement.

What we learned

We learned about the interaction between chemotherapy, immune health, and the gut microbiome. We also gained insight into cancer staging and the importance of supportive care in treatment planning.

What's next for Improving Chemotherapy to help in treating lung cancer

Next steps include expanding our study population, investigating the biological mechanisms behind lung cancer and immunity, and developing clinical trials to test our treatment’s effectiveness. We aim to contribute to global efforts in reducing lung cancer mortality through improved therapy.

Built With

  • https://jitc.bmj.com/content/5/1/79
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/pmc5220497/
  • https://www.cancer.gov/types
  • https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/what-is-cancer/body-systems-and-cancer/the-immune-system-and-cancer
  • https://www.who.int/
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