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LOS ANGELES, CA – A groundbreaking study from UCLA has revealed a concerning link between chronic stress, obesity, and the rapid development of pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest forms of malignancy. Researchers have identified a key molecular mechanism through which these lifestyle factors may contribute to the early stages of the disease.
Published in the journal Molecular Cancer Research, the study, conducted using preclinical models, demonstrates how stress and obesity can trigger changes in pancreatic cells that pave the way for cancer. Specifically, the research team discovered that stress-related neurotransmitters and obesity-related hormones activate a protein called CREB, which is known to promote cancer cell growth.
The study highlights that stress hormones activate the β-adrenergic receptor/PKA pathway, while obesity-related signals primarily utilize the PKD pathway. This convergence of pathways suggests that both stress and obesity can fuel pancreatic cancer growth through similar mechanisms.
In experiments involving mice, a high-fat diet alone resulted in the development of precancerous pancreatic lesions. However, when the mice were also subjected to social isolation stress, they developed significantly more advanced lesions. Notably, the researchers observed that social isolation had a more pronounced impact on cancer development in female mice compared to males. They hypothesize that women’s biological response to stress, potentially influenced by estrogen and increased β-adrenergic receptor activity, may make them more susceptible to stress-related cancer risks.
“Our findings suggest that stress hormones and obesity-related hormones activate key cancer-promoting pathways, potentially accelerating the onset of pancreatic cancer,” said Dr. Guido Eibl, senior author and professor in residence in the department of surgery at UCLA Health.
The researchers suggest that one potential avenue for intervention could be the repurposing of existing medications. Given the crucial role of β-adrenergic receptors in stress-related cancer growth, commonly used beta-blockers, prescribed for high blood pressure, might be explored as a way to mitigate these effects.
The study’s first authors are Xiaoying Sun, a postdoctoral researcher, and Yaroslav Teper, a project scientist, both at UCLA. Senior authors include Dr. Guido Eibl and Dr. Enrique Rozengurt. Other co-authors from UCLA include James Sinnett-Smith, Mineh Markarian, Dr. Joe Hines, and Dr. Gang Li. All senior authors are also members of the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center.
“This research provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between lifestyle factors and pancreatic cancer development,” said Dr. Enrique Rozengurt, distinguished professor of medicine and chief of research in the division of digestive diseases at UCLA.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information provided in a scientific study. Further research is needed to confirm these findings in humans. The information provided should not be interpreted as medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
