Study finds missing link between what you eat and cancer risk as diabetes damages DNA

According to a study, a link between diet and cancer risk was discovered, as diabetes was found to damage DNA, thereby increasing the risk of cancer. The research, conducted by the Singapore Institute of Cancer Science, found that high glucose levels can temporarily switch off the BRCA2 gene, which is known for its tumor suppressing abilities.

This suggests that dietary control and weight management could play a significant role in cancer prevention. The discovery was made using mouse models, human tissue and breast organoids grown in the laboratory. It has been found that a single mutated BRCA2 gene can make cells more susceptible to environmental suppressors such as toxins, which in turn make them less functional.

Cells with a faulty BRCA2 gene were found to be more sensitive to methylglyoxal, a by-product of glycolysis where cells metabolize glucose for energy, the Irish Star reports. When high blood sugar is present, especially in conditions such as diabetes, MGO can build up and damage DNA and proteins. The study found that MGO can temporarily turn off the BRCA2 gene, allowing cancer-causing mutations to occur.

This effect has been observed in non-cancerous cells, human breast cancer samples and mouse models of pancreatic cancer. Although the BRCA2 gene is not permanently disabled and can return to normal function, repeated exposure to MGO can lead to the accumulation of cancer-causing mutations, contributing to the development and progression of cancer.

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