It’s been well established that obesity is a contributor to cancer risk, but how it actually causes cancer is still a question that hasn’t been fully explained.
It’s been well established that obesity is a contributor to cancer risk, but how it actually causes cancer is still a question that hasn’t been fully explained.
A new Michigan State University study now offers new details showing that a certain protein released from fat in the body can cause a non-cancerous cell to turn into a cancerous one. The federally funded research also found that a lower layer of abdominal fat, when compared to fat just under the skin, is the more likely culprit, releasing even more of this protein and encouraging tumor growth.
“While there have been several advances in treating cancer and improving the quality of life of patients, the number of new cases continues to surge,” said Jamie Bernard, lead author and an assistant professor in pharmacology and toxicology.
“It’s important to understand the cause so we can do a better job at reducing the number of cancer cases using dietary modifications or therapeutic interventions.”
Read more at Michigan State University
Image: Jamie Bernard, an assistant professor in pharmacology and toxicology at Michigan State University, has found that a certain protein released from fat in the body can cause a non-cancerous cell to turn into a cancerous one. She also found that abdominal fat is the more likely culprit. (Credit: Michigan State University)
