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UCLA Study Finds SSRIs Enhance T Cell Activity and Reduce Tumor Growth in Preclinical Cancer Models

A recent study conducted by researchers at UCLA has identified a potential link between commonly used antidepressants and enhanced cancer-fighting capabilities of the immune system.

The research, published in the journal *Cell*, found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) significantly improved the ability of T cells to combat cancer and reduced tumor growth across various types of cancers in both mouse and human tumor models.

The findings suggest that SSRIs, which are widely prescribed for depression and anxiety disorders, may have an unexpected role in supporting immune responses against cancer. The study demonstrated that these antidepressants boosted T cell activity, a critical component of the immune system’s ability to target and destroy cancer cells.

Researchers observed this effect across multiple cancer types, indicating a broad potential application.

While the results are preliminary and based on preclinical models, they open new avenues for exploring how existing medications could be repurposed to aid in cancer.

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