Experimental Antioxidant Therapy in Ataxia Telangiectasia
2008

Antioxidant Therapy in Ataxia Telangiectasia

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Reliene Ramune, Schiestl Robert H.

Primary Institution: David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles

Hypothesis

Antioxidant therapy may mitigate the symptoms of Ataxia Telangiectasia, especially neurological degeneration and tumorigenesis.

Conclusion

N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) significantly reduces the incidence and multiplicity of lymphoma in Atm deficient mice.

Supporting Evidence

  • NAC intake significantly increased the lifespan of Atm deficient mice.
  • The incidence of lymphoma in NAC treated mice decreased by two-fold.
  • NAC reduced both the incidence and multiplicity of lymphoma in Atm deficient mice.

Takeaway

This study found that giving a supplement called NAC to mice with a genetic disorder helped them live longer and get fewer tumors.

Methodology

NAC was administered in drinking water to Atm deficient mice from fertilization throughout their life.

Limitations

The positive effects of NAC do not suggest it can replace the missing ATM protein.

Participant Demographics

Atm deficient mice were used as the model for the study.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p = 0.02

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

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