Division - Metabolism & Cancer

In our research group, we explore the intricate connections between metabolic disorders and cancer. A key focus of our investigation is cancer cachexia—a severe wasting syndrome characterized by the progressive loss of muscle and adipose tissue that affects many cancer patients. This condition not only diminishes patients' quality of life but also impairs the effectiveness of cancer therapies and significantly increases cancer-related mortality.

We utilize mouse models of various cancer types specifically developed to mimic cancer cachexia, alongside complementary in vitro systems involving tumor cells, myotubes, and adipocytes. One of our goals is to identify and functionally characterize the tumor-derived factors that drive weight loss in cancer patients. Through this research, we aim to elucidate the molecular pathways influenced by these mediators, ultimately seeking new therapeutic targets to alleviate the impact of cachexia.

Additionally, we are investigating the liver’s role in the development of cancer cachexia to better understand cachexia as a systemic condition. Insights gained from cachexia-induced fat loss are also being leveraged to develop novel strategies for combating obesity.

Another facet of our research is the development of innovative cancer treatment approaches that target cancer metabolism or exploit the unique features of obesity-driven cancers.