Intermittent Fasting and Fasting-mimicking Diet: Promising Strategies in Cancer Management

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Metabolic pathways
• Immunology

Background:

• Intermittent fasting (IF) and fasting-mimicking diets (FMD) are dietary interventions with potential anti-cancer effects.
• Understanding their mechanisms is crucial for optimizing cancer treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the advancements in understanding the roles and mechanisms of IF and FMD in cancer.
• To synthesize current findings on how IF and FMD affect tumor progression, immune response, and therapy outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of studies on intermittent fasting and fasting-mimicking diets in cancer.
• Analysis of preclinical and clinical data investigating the molecular and cellular effects of IF and FMD.

Main Results:

• IF and FMD can impede tumor growth by modulating key signaling pathways (AKT, Nrf2, AMPK).
• These dietary interventions influence the tumor immune microenvironment by regulating immune cells (TAMs, MDSCs, T cells, B cells).
• IF and FMD enhance the efficacy and tolerability of cancer therapies, reducing treatment-related side effects.

Conclusions:

• IF and FMD represent promising complementary strategies in cancer therapy.
• Clinical trials indicate safety, feasibility, and improved quality of life with IF and FMD, supporting their integration into cancer care.
• Further research into the underlying mechanisms can refine the application of IF and FMD for improved cancer patient outcomes.