Is there any information on Rapamycin effects on the Prostate?
Hi Franke,
Rich and Brandon, here from the Clinical Team at Healthspan. Thank you so much for your important question. Before getting into the specifics of prostate cancer, I think it is worthwhile to highlight at least the potential role of low-dose oral rapamycin in a cancerous environment (non-tissue-specific). At the doses we use, Rapamycin has anti-cancer properties. It works by inhibiting the mTOR pathway, which regulates cell growth and proliferation. The mTOR pathway is like a “growth switch” inside cells — it controls nutrient sensing, protein synthesis, and cell proliferation. Many cancers show overactive mTOR signaling, which drives uncontrolled growth, survival of abnormal cells, and reduced autophagy (cellular cleanup).
By slowing down the formation of senescent cells (cells that no longer divide but can create an inflammatory environment), Rapamycin can help prevent conditions conducive to cancer development. It also reduces inflammation, which is known to support overall immune health. The low, intermittent dosing used in healthspan protocols aims to balance these protective effects while minimizing any potential risks, making it a safe and effective option for most patients focused on longevity.
In fact, Rapalogs (sirolimus, everolimus, temsirolimus) are already used in certain cancers (renal cell carcinoma, breast cancer, pancreatic tumors), though usually at higher, therapeutic doses [1].
Now, shifting toward a more tissue-specific prostate environment…
We found some research related to rapamycin in the context of prostate cancer. We wanted to share and would love to hear your thoughts, too!
One small 2010 study [2] showed that rapamycin, when administered at 3mg daily for 14 days before prostate surgery, successfully and safely inhibited prostate cancer S6 phosphorylation and achieved relatively high prostate tissue concentrations. According to this study’s data, prostate tissue rapamycin concentrations were 3- to 4-fold higher than blood. This study indicates that rapamycin does reach prostate tissue, where it would have the ability to influence and affect cancer cells.
There was a fascinating 2021 publication that focused on rapamycin in active surveillance of prostate cancer [3]. The study intervention was 3 months; encapsulated rapamycin was safe and well-tolerated. The results indicate there was no progression observed.
Here is a quote from the discussion: “Rapamycin is a well-studied and previously utilized agent with potential to prevent prostate cancer progression” [3].
It is always important to consider the dose, titrate up slowly, stay in tune with relevant lab markers and other diagnostics, monitor how you feel, and coordinate any cancer-related interventions with your local doctor or oncology care team.
References:
So it seems like low theraputic dose for cancer prevention or to slow progression is a safe bet as long as there are no adverse issues.
Overall, we would agree based upon the study data we have seen to date. For each individual it is important to get a clear picture and analysis based upon health history and include a provider in your decision making for best results and safety on a personal level 
I understand how the mTOR pathway works to regulate cell growth and proliferation of cancer cells but won’t that also reduce normal cell growth? Will the autophagy also cleanup the cancer cells? Is encapsulated Rapa better than standard Rapa?
Will Rapamycin have any effects on Testosterone supplementation?