Tumoricidal and anti-angiogenic actions of gamma-linolenic acid and its derivatives.

Studies showed that gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and its derivatives have the potential to be anti-cancer molecules. In vitro, in vivo and limited clinical studies showed that GLA has selective tumoricidal action with little or no side effects. The mechanism of its action appears to be by inducing apoptosis of tumor cells by augmenting free radical generation only in the tumor cells but not normal cells. Intra-arterial injection of a lithium salt derivative of GLA demonstrated its ability to selectively occlude tumor-feeding vessels. Since GLA is an endogenous naturally occurring molecule and has no significant side effects, it calls for more studies to exploit its potential as a novel anti-cancer drug.