Latest research from the University of Florida Health Cancer Center (UF) has suggested that poor diet can increase lung cancer risk. These findings were published in Nature Metabolism. It has revealed an association between glycogen accumulation and progression of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). LUAD is an aggressive form of cancer and is considered as one of the deadliest in the world.
In this study, it highlighted the role of glycogen in LUAD and its impact on the growth of tumor. Glycogen is a glucose-storage molecule and acts as a powerful oncogenic metabolite. The team used advanced spatial metabolomics and found that glycogen levels in lung cancer cells provide essential building blocks for growth of tumor. The team fed mice with high-fat, high-fructose “Western diet” and found that the lung tumors expanded rapidly. When the glycogen levels decreased, tumor growth also lowered down. Glycogen is a branched polysaccharide stored in liver and muscles. It plays an important role in cancer metabolism. The cancer cells exploit glycogen storage and utilization to sustain their growth and survival. The more glycogen in the cancer cells, the bigger is the tumor growth. In short, glycogen acts as a key fuel source for lung tumors and thus, diet is a crucial factor in cancer risk.
Western Diet is often high in salt, sugar and fat and has the potential to raise the lung cancer risk. “Lung cancer has not traditionally been thought of as a dietary-related disease,” said Ramon Sun, Associate Professor and director of the University of Florida’s Center for Advanced Spatial Biomolecule Research. “Diseases like pancreatic cancer or liver cancer, yes. However, when it comes to lung cancer, the idea that diet could play a role is rarely discussed,” Sun added.
By prioritizing a nutrient-rich diet and maintaining an active lifestyle are important strategies for long-term health.
The information shared in this blog is for educational purposes only.
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