Exploring the Link Between Fructose and Pancreatic Cancer
A new research project led by Dr. Alessandro Carrer at the University of Padova, and cofounder of I-PCC, has been selected for funding by the Wereld Kanker Onderzoek Fonds, a charity in the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) International network. The study aims to uncover how excessive consumption of fructose—a common sugar found in sweetened drinks—might increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.
Scientific Rationale
Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most lethal cancers, and prevention is critical. While epidemiological studies suggest that high fructose intake may be correlated with increased pancreatic cancer risk, the biological mechanisms are still unclear. It has recently been shown that dietary fructose is transformed by the gut microbiome into acetate, which cells can use to make acetyl-CoA—a key molecule that supports cancer growth. Dr. Carrer’s group has identified cellular targets sensitive to changes in acetyl-CoA levels and seeks to develop strategies to prevent cancer onset in at-risk individuals.
Project Goals
This 4-year, €572,000 study funded by WCRF Int. seeks to:
Understand how fructose metabolism affects pancreatic cells.
Using advanced mouse models and patient samples, the team will study how gut-derived acetate alters the structure and function of the nucleolus, a critical cellular compartment that controls protein synthesis.Investigate how fructose-driven changes promote cancer initiation.
The researchers will collaborate with groups in USA and Belgium to dissect cellular processes altered by fructose-derived acetate in order to unravel diet-responsive mechanisms that support tumor formation.Identify new prevention and treatment strategies.
The study will assess whether targeting the nucleolus or acetate-metabolizing enzymes like ACSS2 could counteract the tumor-promoting effects of fructose.Engage patients and the public.
In partnership with Fondazione Nadia Valsecchi and the Italian Pancreatic Cancer Community (I-PCC), the project will host educational talks and publish materials to help patients and families understand how diet influences cancer risk.
Expected Impact
By clarifying how diet and metabolism interact in the earliest steps of pancreatic cancer, this project will:
Provide a scientific foundation for public health guidelines on fructose consumption.
Support the development of personalized prevention strategies based on diet and microbiome profiles.
Strengthen collaboration between researchers, clinicians, and patient communities across Italy and Europe.
For more information, visit: https://www.wcrf.org/research-policy/our-research/grants-database/fructose-pancreatic-cancer-acetate/