Stopping cancer-related weight and muscle loss (cachexia)
CANCAN - ROCHESTER
This project seeks causes and new treatments for severe weight and muscle loss (cachexia) in people with cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11235476 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
I would be part of a project where doctors and scientists work together to find what tumors release that trigger appetite loss, metabolic problems, and tissue wasting. The team uses animal models with metabolic isotope tracing and advanced tissue imaging alongside detailed clinical measurements in people with cancer. They formed a virtual institute of experts in metabolism, immunology, neuroendocrine function, and clinical phenotyping to share data and methods. The aim is to connect tumor-derived signals to patient symptoms so new treatments can be developed.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with cancer who are losing weight or muscle mass, have poor appetite, or show metabolic signs of cachexia would be the most likely candidates.
Not a fit: People without cancer or cancer patients who are not experiencing wasting or appetite changes are unlikely to directly benefit from or qualify for this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to therapies that preserve muscle and fat, improve tolerance to cancer treatments, and increase quality and length of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has identified downstream muscle-wasting pathways but has not produced effective treatments, so this integrated tumor-to-host approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mustian, Karen M. — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Mustian, Karen M.
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.