Uncovering the Link Between High-Fructose Corn Syrup and Tumor Growth: What You Need to Know About Cancer Risks

Study Examines the Impact of High-Fructose Corn Syrup on Tumor Growth in Mice

Introduction

A recent study explored whether high-fructose corn syrup, a common sweetener in beverages, contributes to tumor growth in mice. The rising consumption of sugary drinks since the 1980s has been associated with increased rates of obesity and colorectal cancer among young and middle-aged adults.

Link Between Sugary Drinks and Health Risks

While previous research has established a connection between the intake of sugar-sweetened beverages and obesity, as well as the correlation between obesity and higher colorectal cancer risk, there is limited evidence regarding the direct effects of these sugary drinks on tumor development.

Research Overview

Published in the journal Science, the study conducted by U.S. researchers aimed to understand the effects of high-fructose corn syrup on tumor growth in a controlled mouse model. The researchers specifically focused on mice with a deleted adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene, which is crucial for tumor suppression.

The Role of APC Protein

The APC protein normally works to inhibit tumor growth but is frequently mutated in the early phases of colorectal cancer. The mice in the study were given a moderate dose of sugary water to simulate the average daily consumption of one soda can.

Findings on Tumor Development

After two months of treatment, the results showed that while the APC-deficient mice did not gain weight, they exhibited a significantly greater number of large and higher-grade tumors. This indicates that chronic consumption of high-fructose corn syrup could promote tumor growth independent of obesity.

Metabolism of Fructose and Tumor Growth

The researchers further examined how high-fructose corn syrup is metabolized in the mice. They found that elevated fructose levels in the body were transported into tumor cells, leading to an increase in fatty acid production. These fatty acids are known contributors to tumor growth and cancer progression.

Implications of the Study

The study’s findings suggest that dietary high-fructose corn syrup may enhance tumor growth even with moderate consumption. The metabolism of fructose could potentially serve as a therapeutic target for slowing colorectal cancer progression. Although additional human studies are necessary, the researchers aim to raise awareness regarding the possible health risks associated with sugary beverages containing high-fructose corn syrup.

References

Goncalves, M. D., Lu, C., Tutnauer, J., Hartman, T. E., Hwang, S., Murphy, C. J., … Yun, J. (2019). High-fructose corn syrup enhances intestinal tumor growth in mice. Science, 363(6433), 1345-1349. doi:10.1126/science.aat8515

Mickey, A. (2019, March 21). High-fructose corn syrup boosts intestinal tumor growth in mice. Retrieved from https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-03/bcom-hcs031819.php