Cancell

Cancell, also known by various names including Protocel, Sheridan's Formula, Jim's Juice, Crocinic Acid, JS–114, JS–101, 126–F, and Entelev, is a controversial formula that has been advocated for treating various diseases, notably cancer. It was originally developed by biochemist James V. Sheridan and has since been a subject of scrutiny and legal actions.

Background

The formula's development was rooted in the aim to target cancer cells' primarily anaerobic cell metabolism, in line with the theories proposed by Otto Warburg. The claim associated with Cancell was that it could lower cell potential, thus causing the destruction of cancer cells.

Formulation and Efficacy

The components of Cancell, as listed by the FDA, include inositol, nitric acid, sodium sulfite, potassium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, and catechol. However, the precise formulation can differ based on the manufacturer and may encompass crocinic acid, along with various vitamins and minerals.

A series of tests were conducted by the NCI in 1978, 1980, 1990, and 1991 on both animal subjects and in vitro on human tumors. The conclusion drawn was that the constituents of Cancell could not be administered in doses potent enough to combat cancer cells in the human body. Further research on the topic was deemed unwarranted due to these findings. Peer-reviewed research has not demonstrated any therapeutic benefit of Cancell. Its purported benefits are primarily based on testimonials and anecdotal reports. Both the American Cancer Society and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center have advised against the usage of CanCell due to the lack of evidence supporting its efficacy and incongruence with contemporary scientific understanding.

Legal Status

Legal challenges against Cancell began in June 1987 when the FDA initiated injunction proceedings against the product due to manufacturing compliance issues and the failure to maintain complaint files. Subsequently, in February 1989, a permanent injunction complaint was lodged in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan against both Sheridan and Edward J. Sopcak, aimed at ceasing the distribution of CanCell. A 1992 hearing led to the court deeming Sopcak in civil contempt, mandating immediate compliance with the injunction.

Presently, Cancell is marketed as a dietary supplement, taking on names like Protocel and Entelev. The FDA does not endorse its use for cancer treatment or any other health-related purposes. Given its status as a dietary supplement without any linked health claims, its regulation is guided by the DSHEA.

See Also

• Alternative cancer treatments
• Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act
• List of unproven and disproven cancer treatments