If you needed any more evidence that the obesity epidemic is tied like a knot to cancer, this latest study from The Scripps Research Institute (TSRI) describes the process in which the breakdown of stored fats may create more aggressive and malignant cancer cells.

Using activity-based protein profiling, scientists discovered the amount of one specific enzyme -- monoacylglycerol lipase (MAGL) -- that breaks down stored fats was also present in greatly elevated levels in aggressive cancers.

How this enzyme triggers cancer: When MAGL breaks down stored fats, it also generates high amounts of free fatty acids (building blocks of cell membranes and fatty molecules) that, in turn, produces molecules that promote the progression and growth of cancer. Because the plague of obesity is being "fed" by folks who eat great amounts of high-fat foods (constantly loading up on free fatty acids), blocking the activity of MAGL (not needed for cell survival) may curb the progression of cancer.

For those who enjoy taking a deeper dive into technical information, you may enjoy watching TRSI researchers discuss their findings in this interesting YouTube video lensed by Cell.

Cell, Vol. 140, No. 1, pp. 49-61, January 8, 2010

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