Vit-C has several pivotal physiological functions in the body, through acting as an electron donor. In addition to being a powerful antioxidant, it also helps to maintain vital tissue structures and functions, by protecting key macromolecules such as proteins, fats, and DNA from oxidation. Vit-C also functions as an enzyme co-factor (co-activator) for a variety of the biosynthetic enzymes that are involved in the production of hormones and the production of metabolic energy.
High-dose vitamin C (HDVC) has emerged as a potential adjunct for cancer treatment because of its selective toxicity against malignant cells. When administered at pharmacological concentrations, it typically operates as a pro-oxidant, generating hydrogen peroxide, which predominantly targets cancer cells with weakened antioxidant defenses. The anticancer mechanisms of HDVC extend beyond oxidative stress and include: (1) disruption of glycolytic metabolism in tumors that exhibit the Warburg effect, (2) epigenetic modulation via TET enzyme activation, (3) degradation of hypoxia-inducible factors, and (4) boosting of immune surveillance.
