University of Kentucky study links obesity to breast cancer

LEXINGTON, Ky. (ABC36 NEWS NOW) — New research from the University of Kentucky’s Markey Cancer Center could pave the way for groundbreaking treatments targeting obesity-related breast cancer.

Scientists at the center have identified a protein called HSP47 that becomes more active in fat tissue during obesity. According to the study, this protein appears to support cancer growth and spread.

In laboratory studies using mice, researchers found that a drug designed to block HSP47 significantly slowed tumor growth and enhanced the activity of immune cells that fight cancer.

The research was funded by the National Cancer Institute and sheds new light on how obesity influences cancer development at the molecular level. Experts say it could lead to promising therapies for patients with obesity-related breast cancer.