Saccharin Shows Surprising Promise Beyond Sweetening   

• Saccharin, the artificial sweetener developed over a century ago as a sugar substitute, is now making waves in medical research for its unexpected therapeutic potential. Researchers at Brunel University of London in the U.K. recently found that saccharin can kill harmful bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant strains, by damaging their membranes and disrupting energy production. Published in EMBO Reports, the study suggests combining saccharin with antibiotics could improve treatment outcomes. The sweetener’s promise extends beyond antibacterial use. In 2023, scientists from Korea University and Samsung Medical Center reported that saccharin slowed the growth of ovarian, lung, and leukemia cancer cells, with even stronger results when paired with caffeine. Crucially, saccharin appeared to leave healthy stem cells unharmed, hinting at its potential for targeted cancer therapies. Saccharin may also help fight obesity and inflammation. A 2020 study published in the Korean Journal of Nutrition showed that it suppressed fat cell formation and lowered the production of inflammatory proteins such as TNF-α and IL-6. Once dismissed as a mere diet aid, saccharin is now being reevaluated as a promising tool in modern medicine. Researchers believe it could play a future role in treating infections, cancers, and metabolic disorders. J.K. Park Staff Reporter junior/1747787172/1613368089