How a ketogenic diet affects tumor growth and survival in cancer patients
Official title: Mechanism by which ketogenic diet uncouples tumor growth and overall survival
Funded at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory · NIH-11109722 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a ketogenic diet might help slow down tumor growth and improve survival for cancer patients, while also considering how it affects weight loss and muscle health, to find better ways to support patients during their treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cold Spring Harbor, United States) |
| Project start | June 6, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $532,591 |
| NIH project number | 5R37CA286477-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11109722 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients experiencing cachexia or those interested in dietary interventions alongside their treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not diagnosed with cancer or those who do not experience cachexia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of a ketogenic diet on tumor growth and overall survival in cancer patients. It aims to understand the complex interactions between tumors and the body, particularly how this diet may slow tumor growth while potentially worsening cancer cachexia, a condition that leads to weight loss and muscle wasting. The study will explore specific dietary components and drugs that could enhance the anti-cancer effects of the ketogenic diet, as well as the role of stress hormones in this process. By examining these factors, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic strategies for improving patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for cancer patients, potentially enhancing their survival and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using dietary interventions for cancer treatment, but this specific approach is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
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Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
Cold Spring Harbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Janowitz, Tobias — Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
- Study coordinator: Janowitz, Tobias
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.