We have all heard over and over again: positive attitudes are associated with living healthier and lengthier lives. That is why people are so often encouraged to exercise, laugh, think positive, keep harmful behavior to a minimum, and remain active.
 

Still, some of us are too lazy to invest time in the security of our well-being…wait until our bodies become completely worn out, and then ask a doctor to load us up on medication. But for those with serious deadly diseases out there, many of you will be thanking Dr. Dipak K. Sarkar who discovered a pill and hospital free way to combat cancer.
 

Dr. Sarkar and his colleagues’ theory claim stress relief is caused by the beta-endorphin peptide (BEP) (aka “feel good” hormones) in the brain that is released during pleasant experiences or activities. In a study that the Rutgers University professor conducted, he discovered BEP-producing neurons may play a role in regulating the development and growth of tumors.
 

“Our findings show promise for future therapeutic treatments for bolstering the immune function,” said Sarkar, professor of animal sciences and director of the Endocrinology Program at the Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences.
 

To test this hypothesis, Rutgers scientists took neural stem cells and transformed them into BEP neurons by treating them with particular chemicals. Then they transplanted them into brains of live rats.
 

From there, they then studied the development of tumors in the rats, and found that rats that were given the BEP neurons boosted the immune system by increasing the action of immune cell types and keep inflammation to a minimum.
 

“We are optimistic that this research can be applied to human medicine,” said Sarkar. “Instead of transplanting cells, we will investigate whether we can increase BEP using a chemical approach.
 

If you want more information, contact: Michele Hujber hujber@aesop.rutgers.edu