Sept. 12 (UPI) -- A common nutrient found in leafy greens and corn may do more than protect eyesight.
New research shows that zeaxanthin, a plant-derived carotenoid, can strengthen the body's cancer-fighting immune cells and make immunotherapy more effective.
The study, recently published in the journal Cell Reports Medicine, found that zeaxanthin enhanced the ability of CD8+ T cells -- immune cells that kill tumors -- to attack cancer.
When given orally to mice, the nutrient slowed the growth of melanoma and colon tumors. That effect disappeared when CD8+ T cells were removed.
Related
