A recent study has uncovered a biological link between cancer cachexia and apathy in cancer patients. Published in Science, the research suggests that the lack of motivation seen in many cancer patients is not just psychological but biological.
Cancer cachexia, which causes weight loss and fatigue, also affects mental and emotional health. Tobias Janowitz from Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory explains that patients with cachexia often lose interest in activities they once enjoyed, like eating their favorite foods or spending time with family.
The study, led by Janowitz and Adam Kepecs from Washington University, found that as cachexia progresses, certain brain neurons release less dopamine, the “feel-good” chemical. This decline in dopamine levels is linked to apathy. Additionally, they discovered elevated levels of IL-6, a protein associated with inflammation, in mice with cachexia. Reducing IL-6 levels improved motivation in the mice.
The research suggests that antibody treatments targeting inflammation could help reduce apathy in cancer patients, allowing them to better tolerate cancer treatments. By addressing both the physical and emotional aspects of the disease, the study hopes to improve the quality of life for cancer patients and their families.
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