UCLA study: creatine boosts dendritic cells against cancer

Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) published a study in iScience on March 21, 2026, showing that creatine, a popular athletic supplement, enhances the activity of dendritic cells, which are crucial for activating T cells against cancer. The study, led by Lili Yang, found that creatine boosts ATP levels in dendritic cells, improving their survival, activation, and ability to prime T cells. In mouse models of melanoma, daily creatine injections slowed tumor growth and increased dendritic cell infiltration. Experiments with human monocyte-derived dendritic cells showed enhanced activation and T cell stimulation, suggesting potential for improving dendritic cell vaccines. The researchers caution that the findings are preclinical and not yet tested in humans. A patent application has been filed by the Nigeria — Petroleum Technology Development Fund on behalf of the Regents of the University of California. Funding was provided by UCLA Broad Stem Cell Research Center, UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, and Tower Cancer Research Foundation.