Serkan Kır and his team conducted a 6-year study addressing the prevention of weight and muscle loss associated with cancer, particularly in advanced stages. They identified that the “EDA2R” gene and “NIK” enzyme contribute to this loss, and by deactivating them, weight and muscle loss can be mitigated. Published in “Nature,” their research sheds light on mechanisms triggering muscle atrophy, holding promise for future treatments. Dr. Kır highlighted how cachexia affects patients’ quality of life and responses to treatments, stressing the need for drug development. The research was carried out over 6 years with the participation of a 7-person team, involving cancer patient tissue samples and genetically modified mice, revealing key insights into the mechanisms. The findings are expected to inspire further studies, extending beyond cancer to age-related muscle loss and other conditions, offering potential medical breakthroughs.

We are thrilled to unveil a remarkable advancement in the understanding of cancer-associated muscle atrophy, a condition impacting patients’ well-being and survival. Our pioneering research, published in the prestigious journal Nature, sheds light on a critical breakthrough that promises to revolutionize how we address this pressing medical challenge.

We are excited to announce the publication of a review article in the prestigious journal Frontiers in Oncology. Titled “Metabolic Reprogramming in Adipose Tissue During Cancer Cachexia”. This mini review explores metabolic changes in adipose tissues (white, brown, beige) influenced by the tumor macro-environment, suggesting potential targets for novel cancer cachexia treatments.

We are delighted to share the heartwarming news of the newest addition to our research community. Our esteemed postdoctoral researcher, Bahar Weber, and their family have been blessed with the arrival of their newborn daughter. This momentous occasion fills our hearts with joy and we extend our warmest congratulations to Bahar. As we celebrate this joyous event, we look forward to witnessing the growth of their family and the promising journey ahead for their daughter.

We are excited to announce the publication of our latest research paper titled “Inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor suppresses parathyroid hormone-related protein expression in tumours and ameliorates cancer-associated cachexia” in the esteemed Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle. This study investigates the relationship between epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling and the expression of cachexia mediator parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP), revealing that EGFR activation increases PTHrP expression in lung cancer cells, while EGFR inhibition reduces PTHrP levels, potentially mitigating cancer cachexia.