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Cancer genetics

New Study Reveals Link Between Type 2 Diabetes and Cancer

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A recent study conducted by researchers at National University of Misiones, in collaboration with the Florencio Fiorini Foundation, has uncovered a significant connection between type 2 diabetes and cancer. The study aimed to explore the relationship between the PI3K/PTEN/AKT signaling cascade, a crucial pathway in glucose metabolism and cell proliferation, and its potential role in cancer progression among diabetic patients. The research revealed that patients with cancer exhibited higher expression levels of the PIK3CA gene compared to those with type 2 diabetes alone, suggesting a potential indicator of systemic alterations in the PI3K/PTEN pathway.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study involved 115 individuals, categorized into four groups: healthy controls, patients with type 2 diabetes, cancer patients, and patients with both cancer and diabetes.
  • The expression of the PIK3CA gene was significantly higher in cancer patients compared to the other groups, with 77% exhibiting overexpression.
  • Only 37% of patients with both cancer and diabetes showed PIK3CA overexpression, indicating a potential biomarker for cancer progression.
  • The expression of the PTEN gene was significantly lower in patients with type 2 diabetes and those with cancer and diabetes compared to cancer patients alone.
  • The study suggests that PIK3CA and PTEN may serve as potential peripheral indicators of systemic alterations in the PI3K/PTEN pathway, highlighting the need for further research.

Statistics:

  • 115 individuals participated in the study, categorized into four groups.
  • 77% of cancer patients exhibited overexpression of the PIK3CA gene.
  • Only 37% of patients with both cancer and diabetes showed PIK3CA overexpression.
  • The expression of the PTEN gene was significantly lower in 47% of patients with type 2 diabetes and those with cancer and diabetes.

Sources:

  • Expression Patterns Of Pik3ca And Pten In Cancer and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Gene, 2025;969.
  • Elsevier - www.elsevier.com
  • Gene - www.journals.elsevier.com/gene/
  • NewsRx. Study Data from National University Provide New Insights into Type 2 Diabetes (Expression Patterns Of Pik3ca And Pten In Cancer and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus). Cancer Weekly. October 21, 2025; p 669.

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