Ketone supplementation decreases tumor cell viability and prolongs survival of mice with metastatic cancer

This study measured the effect of beta-hydroxybutyrate on proliferation and viability of highly metastatic VM-M3 cells in culture, and the effect of diets supplemented with 1,3-butanediol or a ketone ester on VM mice with subcutaneously implanted VM-M3 cells. Ketone supplementation decreased proliferation and viability of the cells in vitro, even in the presence of high glucose. Dietary supplementation with 1,3-butanediol and ketone ester prolonged survival in mice with systemic metastatic cancer by 51 and 69 percent respectively (p < 0.05), with anticancer effects independent of glucose levels or calorie restriction.