UCLA Study Shows Creatine Boosts Immune Cells for Cancer Immunotherapy

Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles published a study in iScience showing that creatine, a common gym supplement, serves as an energy source for dendritic cells and cytotoxic T‑cells. By acting as a "backup battery," creatine improves the survival and activation of dendritic cells, which in turn enhances T‑cell training and tumor‑killing activity. In mouse models of melanoma, dietary creatine supplementation slowed tumor growth and increased the number and function of dendritic cells.

The findings suggest that creatine could augment current cancer immunotherapies, which presently achieve lasting responses in only about 20‑40 % of patients. The researchers identified higher expression of the creatine transporter in dendritic cells within tumors, linking creatine uptake to immune efficiency. While promising, the authors note that human clinical trials are needed and that supplement quality and safety must be ensured before any therapeutic use.

If validated, the work points to a low‑cost metabolic adjuvant that might broaden the effectiveness of immunotherapy across a larger patient population.