A groundbreaking study published in Nature Cancer uncovers a surprising link between cancer and muscle weakness: tumors can damage blood vessels in muscles, even when the muscles are far from the tumor site. This discovery, led by researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago, sheds new light on why millions of cancer survivors struggle with debilitating muscle loss, a condition known as cancer cachexia.

Cancer cachexia affects up to 80% of patients with advanced cancer, causing severe muscle weakness that can make everyday tasks like climbing stairs or carrying groceries challenging. Alarmingly, recent findings suggest that around half of cancer patients already show signs of muscle weakness at their first oncology visit. Even after successful cancer treatment, cachexia can persist, significantly impacting survivors’ quality of life.

The research team, combining expertise in microscopy, cancer biology, and metabolism, used animal models of lung, skin, colon, and pancreatic cancers. They found that tumors trigger a reduction in the number of blood vessels in muscles and make them leakier, impairing the delivery of oxygen and nutrients. This process begins even before noticeable muscle weakness develops.

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A key culprit identified in the study is a protein called Activin-A, released by tumors, which disrupts blood vessel function. By using gene therapy to counteract Activin-A’s effects, the researchers successfully restored blood vessel health and prevented muscle loss in animal models. Examination of muscle tissue from deceased cancer patients further confirmed fewer blood vessels than expected, validating the findings.

The implications are significant. Muscle loss in cancer patients has traditionally been attributed to poor nutrition, loss of appetite, or inflammation caused by tumors. However, this study highlights blood vessel dysfunction as an early and critical factor. “Our findings suggest that repairing blood vessel health could be a novel strategy to prevent or reverse cachexia,” said lead researcher Jalees Rehman.

Currently, no FDA-approved treatments exist for cachexia, but new approaches are emerging. Therapies targeting proteins like GDF-15, which suppresses appetite, are under investigation. Additionally, combining targeted nutrition with exercise programs shows promise for rebuilding muscle mass and strength. The new study proposes that therapies traditionally used for cardiovascular health could be repurposed to restore blood vessel function in cancer patients, offering a faster path to improving muscle strength.

Moving forward, the research team is exploring drugs and exercise regimens known to enhance blood vessel health. By integrating these with strategies to improve nutrition, appetite, and muscle regeneration, they aim to develop comprehensive treatments for cachexia. This approach underscores the need for holistic care that addresses not only cancer but

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