Carbon 60’s Potential Health Benefits: A Simple Look at the Science

A 2008 study in Biomaterials (Markovic et al.) dives into how Carbon 60 (C60), a unique soccer ball-shaped molecule, could support health by managing harmful molecules in the body called free radicals. C60 acts like a “sponge,” soaking up these free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to aging or diseases. This protective ability could make C60 a shield for cells, potentially helping with conditions caused by oxidative stress, like heart disease or brain disorders. On the flip side, when exposed to light, C60 can create reactive oxygen species (ROS), which are powerful molecules that could be used to attack cancer cells or harmful bacteria. This dual role—protecting healthy cells or destroying harmful ones—makes C60 exciting for health research. However, there’s a catch: C60 doesn’t dissolve easily in water, which makes it hard to use in the body. Scientists are working on ways to modify C60, but these changes can affect how it works.

Link to research study