Can Exercise Reprogram Genes to Combat Colon Cancer?

Recent research from the Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah reveals that regular physical activity might influence gene activity in colon cancer tumors and adjacent fat tissue. This groundbreaking study shows that exercise could do more than improve well-being; it might actively alter tumor biology at a molecular level.

Scientists analyzed tumor and visceral adipose tissue from 112 patients with stage 1–3 colon cancer, categorizing them based on their exercise habits: those engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity per week versus those exercising less than an hour weekly. Using RNA sequencing, researchers observed significant differences in gene expression between these groups.

In tumors of patients who exercised regularly, genes associated with cancer progression, such as those involved in angiogenesis and epithelial-mesenchymal transition, were less active. Additionally, genes tied to energy production pathways like oxidative phosphorylation showed reduced activity, indicating potential shifts in tumor metabolism. Surrounding fat tissue in active patients exhibited increased activity in genes related to fat breakdown and glycolysis, suggesting exercise impacts not just the tumor but the local tissue environment.

Dr. Vicky Bandera emphasizes that these findings go beyond physical fitness, hinting at a molecular level influence where exercise could potentially slow tumor growth and reduce its aggressiveness. She stresses the importance of continued funding for research to understand these effects comprehensively, which could lead to personalized exercise recommendations based on individual tumor biology.

While this study used self-reported data, future research plans include using wearable devices and conducting randomized trials to deepen understanding of how physical activity affects gene expression. The ultimate goal is to integrate exercise as a proven, personalized component of cancer care.

This research underscores the powerful role lifestyle factors like exercise play in cancer treatment and survivorship, highlighting that beneficial biological changes can happen deep inside our bodies, even below the surface. Encouraging physical activity could be a vital strategy in improving long-term outcomes for colon cancer patients and the general population alike.