Restoration of cellular energetic balance with L-carnitine in the neuro-bioenergetic approach for cancer prevention and treatment.

Mitochondrial research has contributed to two paradigm shifts in oncology--Warburg's glycolytic metabolism and the relationship between mitochondrial function and mutagenesis. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a common phenotype in aging and cancer. Decline in mitochondrial function is due to the accumulation of mutations in mitochondrial DNA. We have hypothesized a neuro-bioenergetic concept in cancer prevention and treatment to constructively restore three physiological imbalances of cancer patients: membrane hyper-excitability, energy depletion and the build up of extra-cellular adenosine molecules. We have proposed the use of membrane-calming substances to reduce energy consumption and to restore the normal cellular energy metabolism. Based on our theory, L-carnitine's dual effect of enhanced energy production and excitatory neurotransmitter modulation should make it an ideal nutrient for cancer prevention and treatment. L-carnitine, its derivatives and other mitochondrial protectors/enhancers improve metabolic function, energy and detoxification. In combination with other membrane calming agents, L-carnitine could help reverse the membrane hyper-excitability to overcome a neuro-bioenergetic imbalance and can be used as a relevant and effective approach for cancer prevention and treatment.