The Gut-Liver-Muscle Axis in Patients With Head and Neck Cancer Who Experience Weight Loss: Influence of Preoperative Nutritional Supplementation

Summary

The purpose of this study is to determine if consuming a nutritional supplement before surgery affects weight loss, inflammation, and muscle in people with head and neck cancer cachexia. We are doing this study to learn more about weight and muscle loss in people with cancer that does not improve with just eating more calories; this condition is called cancer cachexia. Nutritional drinks created with nutrients that may reduce inflammation and help balance the body's immune system may be a promising treatment for cancer cachexia. Our primary question is if these nutritional interventions affect muscle function through the gut-liver-muscle axis, which can be thought of as a biological "three-way conversation." The gut digests food and hosts a microbiome (a community of bacteria), the liver processes these nutrients and filters toxins, and muscles use this energy. If one part struggles, it can affect the others, impacting overall energy, metabolism, and strength. Our primary goal of this study is to determine feasibility and safety.

Eligibility

Age range

40–89 years

Sex

All

Healthy volunteers

No