Scientists from the Institute for Health Research and Innovation (i3S) of the University of Porto have found that stomach cancer can be fed by fat, opening doors to therapies to block this interaction that favors the progression of the disease.
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14/07/2026
by
Lusa
Cscientists from the Institute for Health Research and Innovation (i3S) of the University of Porto found that stomach cancer can be fed by fat, opening doors to therapies to block this interaction that favors the progression of the disease.
The investigation “identified a new form of communication between stomach cancer cells and adipose tissue cells”, showing that the interaction “can provide energy to tumor cells, favoring disease progression”, describes the i3S in a statement.
Researchers believe that the discovery “may pave the way for the development of new therapies capable of blocking the exchange of messages between cancer cells and fat cells, making it difficult for the tumor to access this energy source.”.
The i3S therefore highlights the “potential impact” of research “on cancer progression control”.
On the other hand, it considers that research can “contribute to combating problems often associated with the disease, such as severe weight loss, muscle mass and body fat, significantly affecting the quality of life and survival of cancer patients”.
“By revealing a new form of interaction between the tumor and the surrounding tissues, this work reinforces the importance of understanding not only the cancer cells, but also the environment in which they develop,” he stresses.
In the study, researchers examined stomach cancer cells that have a sugar molecule (called siallyl-Tn) on the surface, often found in more aggressive tumors.
This molecule was identified “as a central element” in the process of communication between the tumor and adipose tissue.
“ We have verified that these cells release small particles, known as extracellular vesicles, which function as “messages” sent to other cells of the organism,” says Daniela Freitas, i3S researcher and study coordinator.
When these particles reach the fat cells, they begin to “release more fatty acids, energy-rich molecules that can be used by tumor cells”.
“ We have observed that cancer cells can adapt to use this fat as fuel. By having access to this additional source of energy, they become more mobile and can gain a greater capacity to invade neighboring tissues”, says Cátia Ramos, the first author of the study.