Scientists discovered a key mechanism that links obesity and diabetes with cancer: high sugar levels, which increase the activity of a gene widely implicated in cancer progression. In a published study, Dr. Garcia Jimenez's team showed that the ability of the intestinal cells to secrete GIP( a hormone  that enhances insulin release by the pancreas) is controlled by a protein called β-catenin, and that the activity of β-catenin is strictly dependent on sugar levels.

Increased activity of β-catenin is known to be a major factor in the development of many cancers and can make normal cells immortal, a key step in early stages of cancer progression. The study demonstrates that high (but not normal) sugar levels induce nuclear accumulation of β-catenin and lead to cell proliferation. The β-catenin changes, the molecules involved, and the diversity of cancer cells susceptible to these changes are identified.

Dr. Custodia García said, "We were surprised to realize that changes in our metabolism caused by dietary sugar impact our cancer risk. We are now investigating what other dietary components may influence our cancer risk. Changing diet is one of the easiest prevention strategies that can potentially save a lot of suffering and money."