Understanding and treating cancer cachexia

CANCAN - COLDSPRING

NIH-funded research Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory · NIH-10625738

This study is looking into cancer cachexia, a tough condition that causes weight loss and muscle loss in many cancer patients, to find out how it happens and discover new ways to help improve the lives of those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCold Spring Harbor Laboratory NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cold Spring Harbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-10625738 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. By utilizing advanced techniques such as isotope tracing and imaging mass spectroscopy, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve patient outcomes. The ultimate goal is to develop effective treatments that enhance quality of life and survival rates for those suffering from cancer cachexia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who are experiencing symptoms of cachexia.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have cancer or those who are not experiencing cachexia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective therapies that improve treatment responses and quality of life for cancer patients experiencing cachexia.

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

Where this research is happening

Cold Spring Harbor, United States

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 2026-06-13 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.