Mysuru, Oct. 19 (BCT)- Scientists at JSS Medical College, JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research (JSS AHER), Mysuru, have uncovered the novel therapeutic potential of Sodium Butyrate against Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of liver cancer, by targeting the RNA Induced Silencing Complex (RISC) machinery and telomerase.

The study was led by Prof. Prasanna K. Santhekadur, Department of Biochemistry, CEMR Lab, along with his Ph.D students O.C. Shuchi, S. Samanmitha, H.K. Shreyas, M.P. Priyanka and P. Maheshkumari.

Collaborators Dr. Rohit Mehtani and Dr. Divya Prasanna Kumar also contributed to the work. The research was supported by the Anusandhan Research Foundation-CRG grant from the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India.

Published in peer-reviewed journal Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications (BBRC), study highlights a promising therapeutic strategy for liver cancer while elucidating the cross-talk between RISC machinery and telomerase.

It bridges three landmark discoveries recognised with Nobel Prizes in Physiology or Medicine: RNA interference (Andrew Fire & Craig Mello, 2006), microRNA discovery (Victor Ambros & Gary Ruvkun, 2024) and telomere-telomerase research (Elizabeth Blackburn, Carol Greider & Jack Szostak, 2009).

The liver, one of the largest and most vital organs, performs over 500 essential functions. Regular intake of Sodium Butyrate — naturally produced in the gut through a fibre-rich diet including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains — can help strengthen liver health, reduce cancer risk and promote overall wellness.

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a growing public health concern in India and globally, driven largely by sedentary lifestyles, high-calorie diets, excessive alcohol consumption and metabolic disorders. This study provides a potential pathway for preventive and therapeutic interventions against this life-threatening disease.