Ketamine is known for its powerful effects on the mind and body, but could one of its most profound secrets be the ability to fight cancer? In this episode, we explore groundbreaking new research that reveals an unexpected link between ketamine and cervical cancer cells.

Discover the fascinating mechanism at play: ketamine appears to target the “power plants” (mitochondria) inside cancer cells, forcing them to shatter in a process called fission. This triggers a massive energy crisis, effectively stopping the cells in their tracks and pushing them toward self-destruction. We break down the specific molecular “switch” that researchers believe controls this process, offering a new level of precision in understanding how the drug works.

But how does this lab research translate to the real world? We also discuss the critical questions around dosage and the long road from the petri dish to potential patient treatments. Join us for a clear and compelling look at the cutting edge of oncology, where a familiar drug may hold a surprising new key to exploiting one of cancer’s fundamental vulnerabilities.

Reference

Fang, L., et al. (2025). Ketamine induces apoptosis in cervical cancer cells by triggering mitochondrial fission via the RHOA/DRP1 pathway. Journal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research, 44(1), 112. https://doi.org/10.1002/jbt.70500