The link between an unhealthy diet or metabolic conditions like diabetes and an increased risk of cancer has long been recognized. Recent research from Singapore and the UK has shed light on a previously unknown mechanism that explains this association. By studying mouse models, human tissue, and human breast organoids, researchers have uncovered how changes in glucose metabolism can temporarily disable a gene called BRCA2, which normally suppresses tumor formation.
The traditional ‘two-hit’ paradigm proposed by Knudson in 1971 suggests that both copies of a tumor suppressor gene must be permanently inactivated for cancer to develop. However, recent findings indicate that a mutation in just one copy of the BRCA2 gene can increase cancer risk. Interestingly, cells with this mutation are more vulnerable to environmental stresses, which can reduce the levels of BRCA2 protein and lead to functional problems. This challenges the conventional understanding of cancer genetics and highlights the role of environmental factors in cancer development.
The researchers discovered that high levels of methylglyoxal (MGO), a byproduct of glucose metabolism, can temporarily disable the tumor-suppressing functions of the BRCA2 protein. This can result in the formation of harmful compounds that damage DNA and proteins, contributing to cancer development. The study found that cells with one faulty copy of BRCA2 were more sensitive to MGO, further linking glucose metabolism to cancer risk.
The findings have significant implications for cancer prevention and early detection. By understanding how changes in glucose metabolism can disrupt BRCA2 function and lead to cancer-causing mutations, researchers may be able to develop strategies for identifying individuals at higher risk. For example, detecting MGO levels through a blood test for HbA1C could serve as a potential marker for increased cancer risk in individuals with two functional copies of the BRCA2 gene.
It is important to note that the results are based on lab tests and small human tissue samples. Further studies using larger clinical cohorts or animal models are needed to validate the findings and explore the connections between dietary factors, diabetes, and other metabolic disorders. Understanding how MGO affects the repair function of BRCA2 could provide valuable insights into the development and progression of cancer, leading to more targeted prevention and treatment strategies.
Overall, the research highlights the intricate relationship between glucose metabolism and cancer development. By uncovering a novel mechanism by which MGO can impact the tumor-suppressing functions of BRCA2, the study offers new insights into the role of environmental factors in cancer risk. Further research in this area may lead to innovative approaches for cancer prevention and personalized treatment, ultimately improving outcomes for individuals at risk of developing cancer.
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