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Modifiable Host Factors in Melanoma: Emerging Evidence for Obesity, Diet, Exercise, and the Microbiome

Current Oncology Reports volume 21, Article number: 72 (2019) Cite this article

Abstract

Purpose of Review

We discuss how potentially modifiable factors including obesity, the microbiome, diet, and exercise may impact melanoma development, progression, and therapeutic response.

Recent Findings

Obesity is unexpectedly associated with improved outcomes with immune and targeted therapy in melanoma, with early mechanistic data suggesting leptin as one mediator. The gut microbiome is both a biomarker of response to immunotherapy and a potential target. As diet is a major determinant of the gut microbiome, ongoing studies are examining the interaction between diet, the gut microbiome, and immunity. Data are emerging for a potential role of exercise in reducing hypoxia and enhancing anti-tumor immunity, though this has not yet been well-studied in the context of contemporary therapies.

Summary

Recent data suggests energy balance may play a role in the outcomes of metastatic melanoma. Further studies are needed to demonstrate mechanism and causality as well as the feasibility of targeting these factors.

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Affiliations

  1. Melanoma and Immunotherapeutics Service, Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Ave., Box 8, New York, NY, 10065, USA

    Allison Betof Warner

  2. Department of Melanoma Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Unit 430, Houston, TX, 77030, USA

    Jennifer L. McQuade

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  1. Allison Betof Warner
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Correspondence to Jennifer L. McQuade.

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Jennifer L. McQuade has received compensation from Merck for service as a consultant.

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Warner, A.B., McQuade, J.L. Modifiable Host Factors in Melanoma: Emerging Evidence for Obesity, Diet, Exercise, and the Microbiome. Curr Oncol Rep 21, 72 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11912-019-0814-2

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Keywords

  • Melanoma
  • Immunotherapy
  • Obesity
  • Diet
  • Microbiome
  • Exercise