Quercetin for Stage IV Cancer
Also known as: Quercetin dihydrate
Quercetin's senolytic and anti-proliferative effects may clear senescent cancer cells that drive therapy resistance and recurrence.
Mechanism of Action
Quercetin inhibits PI3K/Akt survival signaling, induces apoptosis through mitochondrial pathway, and inhibits angiogenesis. As a senolytic, it clears therapy-induced senescent cancer cells that resist apoptosis and secrete pro-tumorigenic SASP factors. It also modulates P-glycoprotein, potentially enhancing chemotherapy sensitivity.
General mechanism: Flavonoid polyphenol. PI3K inhibitor, sirtuin activator, NF-κB/NLRP3 suppressor. Senolytic (with dasatinib) through BCL-2/BCL-XL disruption.
Current Evidence
Preclinical evidence across multiple cancer types. Senolytic combination with dasatinib shows clearance of senescent cells in human subjects. Cancer-specific senolytic trials are in early stages.
Clinical Status: Preclinical for cancer. Senolytic trials in other indications inform dosing. Available as supplement.
Safety Profile
Very safe as supplement. Dasatinib combination has higher side effect potential (fluid retention, cytopenias). Well-tolerated at standard supplement doses.
Key Research Questions
- Can post-chemotherapy senolytic therapy (dasatinib + quercetin) prevent cancer recurrence?
- Does quercetin's P-glycoprotein modulation enhance chemotherapy in resistant tumors?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is quercetin a senolytic?
Yes. Quercetin combined with dasatinib is the most-studied senolytic combination. The landmark 2018 study (Xu et al., Nature Medicine) showed this combination selectively eliminates senescent cells and extends healthspan in mice. Human pilot trials show reduced senescent cell burden.
Quercetin dosage as senolytic
Senolytic protocols typically use quercetin 1000mg + dasatinib 100mg for 3 consecutive days per month (intermittent dosing). Continuous daily quercetin (500-1000mg) may provide antioxidant benefits but does not achieve senolytic concentrations.