2017, Number 2
On the properties and uses of glutamine in tumor cytoreduction
Andrade HMB, Chaug SMA, Andino RFX, Rodríguez VD
Language: Spanish
References: 0
Page: 430-464
PDF size: 869.12 Kb.
ABSTRACT
Glutamine (Gln) participates in numerous biological functions ranging from maintenance of the body nitrogen (N) homeostasis to immunocompetence and response to aggression. Gln has been recognized as the most abundant conditionally essential aminoacid of the economy. Gln serum concentrations are depleted rapidly during aggression, injury and sepsis. Cancer cell acts a N trap, and competes against the healthy cell for availability and access to nutrients, Gln among them. Tissue depletion of Gln could affect the effectiveness of the different modalities of tumor cytoreduction (TCR). Exogenous Gln supplementation has been proposed for treating reduced serum concentrations of this aminoacid, restoring affected biological functions, and securing the effectiveness of the cytoreducing schemes. Exogenous Gln supplementation could also be used to promote grafting and proliferation of neutrophils subpopulations after bone marrow transplant (BMT). Treatment of mucositis, diarrhea and other side effects of TCR could become a third application of exogenous Gln supplementation. Those patients in whom interruption of TCR in view of the experienced weight loss, reduction of lean body mass and increased risk of infection and sepsis could also be benefited from exogenous Gln supplementation. Indications for exogenous Gln supplementation should be extended to the required econometric considerations concerning the inclusion of this modality of nutritional support within TCR.