Poster #036, Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science
Effects of Physical Activity on Breast Cancer and Metabolic Health
Mentor: Susana Cavallero, PhD
Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, and researchers continue to investigate how lifestyle factors may influence disease progression and patient outcomes. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive malignancy characterized by limited therapeutic options and a disproportionate impact on African American and younger premenopausal patients. Previous studies have shown that patients who engage in higher levels of physical activity often experience improved overall health outcomes. Exercise-based interventions have demonstrated benefits in restoring strength and physical function following cancer treatment. This project explores the overall hypothesis that regular physical activity and controlled dietary habits may help reduce factors associated with breast cancer progression. Our lab utilizes in vitro models to understand the biological pathways associated with exercise Training. To determine whether exercise-derived signals affect TNBC, we cultured skeletal C2C12 myotubes subjected to electrical pulse stimulation (EPS) and collected conditioned media containing secreted factors from the muscle cells. Conditioned media from non-EPS control or EPS-treated cells are being used to treat TNBC-derived mammospheres. Mammospheres are being sectioned for immunofluorescence for vascular markers and periodic acid Schiff (PAS) staining. We expect that treatment with conditioned media from cells exposed to exercise-like conditions through EPS stimulation will have a favorable effect on TNBC by decreasing cell migration and vascular differentiation. In summary, understanding the mechanisms underlying the effects of exercise in the context of TNBC will provide new therapeutic targets.