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Elucidating the role of adipose tissue secreted factors in malignant transformation

Debrup Chakraborty1, Vanessa Benham1, Jamie J Bernard1

  • 1a Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology , Michigan State University , East Lansing , MI , USA.

Adipocyte
|November 3, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Excess body fat, specifically visceral adipose tissue, promotes skin cancer development. Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) released by this fat is a key driver in the malignant transformation of cells, linking obesity to cancer.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Metabolic Syndrome
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Rising incidence of obesity and obesity-linked cancers necessitates understanding the underlying mechanisms.
  • Excess adiposity's role in cancer development is not fully elucidated.
  • Previous research indicated visceral adipose tissue removal reduced UVR-initiated, high-fat diet-promoted skin cancers.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the role of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) in adiposity-associated tumorigenesis.
  • To provide additional interpretations and data supporting FGF2's function in malignant transformation.
  • To explain how excess visceral adipose tissue promotes cancer development.

Main Methods:

  • Focuses on a recently published study (Chakraborty, et al., 2017).
  • Presents new data and interpretations.
  • Examines the effects of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) released from visceral adipose tissue.

Main Results:

  • Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) released from visceral adipose tissue is a key factor in the malignant transformation of epithelial cells.
  • Demonstrates a link between FGF2, visceral adipose tissue, and cancer promotion.
  • Supports the role of FGF2 in obesity-associated tumorigenesis.

Conclusions:

  • Fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF2) is a critical mediator linking visceral adipose tissue to cancer development.
  • Excess adiposity contributes to tumorigenesis through FGF2 signaling.
  • Further research into FGF2 pathways may reveal therapeutic targets for obesity-related cancers.
Keywords:
FGF2adipositybreast cancercancerobesityskin cancervisceral fat

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