How obesity affects cancer-related weight loss and muscle loss
Microbiome-Mitochondrial Interactions Driving Cancer-Induced Cachexia in the Obese State
This study is looking at how being overweight might affect muscle loss in cancer patients and is exploring the role of gut bacteria and cell energy problems in this process, with the hope of finding better ways to help those who are struggling with this issue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Carolina at Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10990267 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between obesity and cancer-induced cachexia, which is the unintentional loss of muscle mass that can occur in cancer patients. It aims to explore how mitochondrial dysfunction and changes in gut bacteria may contribute to this condition, particularly in overweight or obese individuals. By examining these interactions, the research seeks to uncover potential mechanisms that could lead to better treatment outcomes for patients experiencing cachexia. The study will involve analyzing microbial and metabolic changes in patients to understand their impact on muscle loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who are overweight or obese and experiencing symptoms of cachexia.
Not a fit: Patients who are not overweight or obese and do not exhibit signs of cachexia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing cachexia in obese cancer patients, enhancing their quality of life and treatment outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the interplay between obesity and cachexia is a relatively novel area of investigation, preliminary evidence suggests that understanding these interactions could lead to significant advancements in treatment approaches.
Where this research is happening
Columbia, United States
- University of South Carolina at Columbia — Columbia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cardaci, Thomas — University of South Carolina at Columbia
- Study coordinator: Cardaci, Thomas
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 below.