Assessing if tumor induced muscle cachexia is initiated by defects in Myosin Heavy Chain production and localization in a Drosophila tumor model

Cachexia is a devastating cancer associated disease which affects millions each year and yet is untreatable. Currently cachexia is defined in patients by rapid loss of >5% of body weight with muscle weakness and an underlying chronic condition. Cachexia is considered a late-stage consequence of cancer. Here, we present preliminary data acquired by undergraduate students using a Drosophila model of cancer cachexia.

Excitingly, we have identified stereotyped changes which occur in vivo early in tumor development. In this study, we will distinguish the origins of these phenotypes, assess their contribution to cachexia progression, and investigate if the Hippo signaling pathway is regulating early or late events in cachexia. We will leverage our expertise in staining and imaging as well as new community tools which allow tissue specific genetic manipulation to achieve our goals. These studies will be conducted primarily by undergraduate trainees and will shed light on the unknown etiology of cancer-induced cachexia.

Results of these, and future translational works, are the foundation to developing earlier diagnostics permitting interventions to prevent cachexic progression in patients. Through the course of this support the PI will establish an independent research program which will illuminate the earliest steps of cachexic changes in muscles and provide critical training and support to outstanding and meritorious undergraduate and master’s degree seeking trainees to support the future development of our critical health and scientific workforce.

Grant Number: 5R16GM150753-03
NIH Institute/Center: NIH
Principal Investigator: Mardelle Atkins