2024-04-19 12:22:50
Published in the journal Cell A study by the National University of Singapore has discovered a mechanism that may help explain why a poor diet increases the risk of cancer. In cell studies, researchers found that methylglyoxal, which is produced when cells break down glucose for energy, can suppress genes that protect against cancer. They say that poor diet increases methylglyoxal levels and increases the risk of cancer.
Excess glucose – a harbinger of cancer risk?
Methylglyoxal is a by-product of glucose, protein and lipid metabolism. This molecule can disrupt cellular activity, so enzymes normally break it down into less harmful substances. Excess methylglyoxal can damage DNA.
The researchers first examined the effects of methylglyoxal on cells taken from people who inherited a mutated copy of the gene BRCA2, which increases the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
They discovered that methylglyoxal temporarily turned off the tumor suppressor BRCA2 gene, which can increase the chance of developing cancer.
“It is well established that some individuals are at high risk of developing breast, ovarian, pancreatic or other cancers because they inherit a faulty copy of the cancer prevention gene BRCA2 from their parents,” said study author Professor Ashok Venkitaraman of the National University of Singapore.
According to research data, the cells of such people are particularly sensitive to the effects of methylglyoxal. It inhibits the function of BRCA2, which prevents tumor formation.
“The study found that even individuals without a genetic predisposition may still face an increased risk of cancer due to elevated levels of methylglyoxal,” said registered dietitian Kelsey Costa.
This is common in people who have diabetes or prediabetes, she said. These health problems are often associated with obesity or suboptimal dietary and lifestyle habits.
“People with diabetes have higher than normal blood glucose levels. Some of this excess glucose is broken down by glycolysis, which increases the amount of methylglyoxal,” said Venkitaraman.
“A poor diet high in sugar or refined carbohydrates increases blood glucose levels,” he added.
The study suggests that methylglyoxal can temporarily “turn off” genes responsible for preventing cancer. Consequently, repeated episodes of poor nutrition or uncontrolled diabetes can “add up” over time and increase the risk of cancer
Diet affects cancer risk
K. Costa explained that the results of the new study are an additional incentive to adhere to the principles of healthy nutrition.
A typical Western diet is high in processed foods, red meat and added sugar.
“The best way to reduce methylglyoxal production and support your metabolism, microbiome and overall health is to eat a balanced diet that focuses on fruits and vegetables.” It is a source of dietary fibers and biologically active compounds,” said K. Costa.
The Mediterranean diet is famous for its health benefits. It has been shown to reduce methylglyoxal levels.
“In fact, in a recent study, following a Mediterranean diet was linked to lower levels of methylglyoxal in the blood, which seemed to help maintain healthy kidneys in people who had type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease,” Costa said.
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2024-04-19 12:22:50