Among obese patients, activation of the protein biomarker CTNNB1 was associated with better colorectal cancer-specific survival and overall survival, whereas post-diagnosis physical activity was associated with better colorectal cancer-specific survival among patients negative for CTNNB1.
Activation of the WNT signaling pathway (a network of proteins known for their roles in cancer) and cadherin-associated protein beta-1 (CTNNB1; [beta-catenin]) plays a critical role in colorectal carcinogenesis.
Accumulating evidence indicates a role of WNT-CTNNB1 signaling in obesity and metabolic diseases, according to background information in the article. Considering the dual roles of CTNNB1 in carcinogenesis and energy metabolism, the authors hypothesized that activation of WNT-CTNNB1 signaling might confer proliferative ability to cancer cells. “In addition, epidemiological evidence suggests causal effects of obesity or excess energy balance on colon cancer incidence and mortality. Notably, physical activity (exercise) has emerged as a modifiable lifestyle factor that may improve cancer survival,” the authors write.
Teppei Morikawa, M.D., Ph.D., of the Dana-Farber Cancer Instit…
Read more Activation of biomarker may improve survival among obese patients with colorectal cancer