Researchers Link Sugary Drinks to Increased Colorectal Cancer Spread

What's Happening?

Researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center have found that sugary drinks may contribute to the metastasis of colorectal cancer. The study, conducted using preclinical models, indicates that the glucose-fructose mix commonly found in sugary drinks can make existing cancers more aggressive and spread faster. This discovery highlights the potential danger of sugary drinks beyond their role in increasing cancer risk. The study used mouse models, human cell lines, and human samples to investigate the effects of sugary drinks on late-stage colorectal cancer. The researchers found that the sugar mix activated an enzyme called sorbitol dehydrogenase (SORD), which boosts glucose metabolism and triggers the cholesterol pathway, driving metastasis. Blocking SORD slowed cancer spread even with the sugar mix present, suggesting that targeting SORD could potentially help block metastasis.

Why It's Important?

The findings underscore the potential impact of dietary choices on cancer progression, particularly in colorectal cancer, which is a leading cause of cancer deaths. With over half of adults and nearly two-thirds of youth in the U.S. consuming sugar-sweetened beverages daily, this research could influence public health recommendations and dietary guidelines. The study suggests that reducing sugary drink consumption and targeting the SORD enzyme may offer new strategies to combat cancer spread. This could lead to changes in dietary recommendations and potentially new treatments for colorectal cancer, affecting patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers.

What's Next?

The next step involves clinical studies to confirm these findings in humans. Researchers aim to explore whether targeting the SORD enzyme can effectively reduce cancer spread in patients. Additionally, revisions to dietary recommendations may be considered to reduce sugary drink consumption. These developments could lead to new public health initiatives and treatment options, impacting cancer care and prevention strategies.