A research team from the National University of Singapore (NUS) has uncovered new insights into the connection between cancer risk and poor diet. Led by Professor Ashok Venkitaraman, the study conducted by scientists from the Cancer Science Institute of Singapore (CSI Singapore) and NUS Centre for Cancer Research revealed a link between a chemical called methylglyoxal, which is associated with diabetes, obesity, and poor diet, and an increased risk of cancer. The findings from this research hold promise for advancing cancer prevention strategies focused on promoting healthy ageing.
The team initially studied patients with a high risk of developing breast or ovarian cancers due to inheriting a faulty copy of the BRCA2 cancer gene. They found that cells from these patients were sensitive to methylglyoxal, a chemical produced during glucose breakdown that can cause DNA faults indicative of cancer development. Additionally, individuals with higher-than-normal levels of methylglyoxal, such as those with diabetes or pre-diabetes linked to poor diet or obesity, may accumulate warning signs of increased cancer risk. The discovery suggests that methylglyoxal levels could be detected through a blood test for HbA1C, potentially serving as a marker for cancer risk that can be controlled through medication and a balanced diet.
The study also challenged a longstanding theory regarding cancer-preventing genes known as Knudson’s ‘two-hit’ paradigm, suggesting that methylglyoxal can temporarily inactivate these genes, thereby increasing the risk of cancer. This finding has the potential to reshape future research in the field and provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying tumour formation. The team’s work has highlighted the importance of understanding the impact of diet and weight control in managing cancer risks, emphasizing the role of environmental factors in cancer development.
Moving forward, the researchers plan to further investigate the impact of metabolic disorders and poor diets on cancer risk in Singapore and other Asian countries. They also aim to uncover additional mechanisms relating to metabolism, diet, and cancer, with the goal of developing more effective approaches for preventing or delaying the onset of cancer. The discoveries made through this study have opened up new avenues for understanding the complex interplay between genetic factors, environment, and lifestyle choices in determining cancer risk, ultimately paving the way for innovative approaches to cancer prevention and promoting healthier ageing.
Overall, the groundbreaking research by the NUS team sheds light on the intricate relationship between diet, metabolic disorders, and cancer risk. By identifying the role of methylglyoxal in increasing cancer risk and challenging existing theories on tumour formation, the study offers valuable insights that can inform future strategies for cancer prevention and management. Through continued research and exploration of novel mechanisms linking metabolism, diet, and cancer, the team aims to contribute to the development of effective approaches to mitigate cancer risk and promote healthy ageing in the population.
