Asthma Drug Revitalizes Cancer Immunotherapy

A common asthma medication, montelukast, has emerged as a potential enhancer for cancer immunotherapies. Research published in Nature Cancer indicates that montelukast blocks a molecule known as CysLTR1, which tumors exploit to evade the body's immune system. By inhibiting this molecule, montelukast appears to restore immune defenses, thereby improving the efficacy of existing cancer treatments. This finding stems from laboratory experiments involving human cancer cells and mice, where blocking CysLTR1 slowed tumor growth and aided immune recovery.

Given that montelukast is already FDA-approved, the researchers are optimistic about initiating patient trials soon. They believe this approach could be particularly beneficial for aggressive cancers like triple-negative breast cancer. In parallel, a separate study explored a novel treatment for severe depression. Researchers found that combining ketamine with a low dose of buprenorphine, an opioid abuse treatment, significantly reduced suicidal ideation in patients.