The importance of the tumour/host interaction in patients with MLTC who develop cancer cachexia, leading to the identification of new treatment strategies
Project Title:
The importance of the tumour/host interaction in patients with MLTC who develop cancer cachexia, leading to the identification of new treatment strategies and therapeutic targets.
Supervisors:
Dr Ross Dolan, School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing, University of Glasgow
Prof Joanne Edwards, School of Cancer Sciences, University of Glasgow
Dr Mark A. Baxter, MED Cancer Research, University of Dundee
Summary:
This study aims to explain the muscle loss and reduced physical function seen in patients with MLTC who develop cancer. Many attempts to address muscle loss, anorexia, and decreased physical function, collectively termed cachexia, have been made. Most occurred in patients with a single disease, such as a specific cancer. Previous interventions included specialised nutritional support programs and targeted exercise. However, most clinical interventions have produced minor improvements in weight loss and ultimately failed to improve overall quality of life. This study will, for the first time, look for mechanistic explanations for cachexia in patients with MLTC. We strongly believe the immune system is a critical driver of this condition, but we must fully understand it. Using operable bowel cancer as our specific test model, we will examine how the immune system directly influences the devastating loss of muscle and other key factors in cachexia. Currently, established medications are used to treat conditions, such as arthritis, by acting directly on the immune system. Furthermore, several animal studies have demonstrated a pivotal role of the immune system in MLTC cachexia. This study will help us understand this complex interaction, potentially allowing us to repurpose existing medications to treat the condition successfully.