Understanding and treating cancer cachexia

CANCAN - Cambridge

NIH-funded research University of Cambridge · NIH-10625550

This study is looking into cancer cachexia, a tough condition that causes weight loss and muscle loss in many cancer patients, to understand how tumors affect the body's metabolism and find new ways to help improve patients' health and well-being.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Cambridge NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cambridge, United Kingdom)
Project IDNIH-10625550 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates cancer cachexia, a severe condition affecting around 80% of cancer patients, characterized by significant weight loss and muscle wasting. The study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms driving this syndrome by examining the interactions between tumors and the body's metabolic processes. A diverse team of international experts will utilize advanced techniques, including metabolic tracing and imaging, to identify potential therapeutic targets. The ultimate goal is to develop effective treatments that can improve patients' quality of life and treatment outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients experiencing significant weight loss and muscle wasting due to cancer cachexia.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently experiencing symptoms of cancer cachexia or those with early-stage cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective therapies for cancer cachexia, improving the quality of life and survival rates for cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been extensive research on cancer cachexia, this approach is novel in its focus on the upstream mediators and systemic interactions involved.

Where this research is happening

Cambridge, United Kingdom

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.