Prostate tumors can rewire amino acid metabolism to override the normal brakes on cholesterol production, a process that may fuel hormone therapy resistance, according to a study by Weill Cornell Medicine investigators.

Dr. John Blenis's lab discovered that low levels of folate, a B vitamin essential for cell growth, can trigger specific genetic changes found in lung tumors, establishing a link between nutrition and cancer, which may open new dietary approaches for prevention and treatment.

The award recognizes exceptional junior investigators for their notable research achievements, impactful findings and high potential for success as independent investigators.

Linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid found in seed oils such as soybean and safflower oil, and animal products including pork and eggs, specifically enhances the growth of the hard-to-treat “triple negative” breast cancer subtype, according to a preclinical study led by Weill Cornell Medicine investigators.

Cancer cells can disrupt a metabolic pathway that breaks down fats and proteins to boost the levels of a byproduct called methylmalonic acid, thereby driving metastasis, according to research led by scientists at Weill Cornell Medicine.