DNA Repair Genes Activated by 10-Minute Workouts in Bowel Cancer Study

Could a 10-minute workout outperform months of chemotherapy in rewriting cancer's genetic code? A recent study suggests exercise may influence cancer cell behavior through molecular pathways previously unexplored in clinical trials.

The research, published in the International Journal of Cancer, tracked 30 participants aged 50–78 who underwent a 10-minute intense cycling test. Blood samples collected before and after the exercise revealed a surge in 13 proteins, including interleukin-6 (IL-6).

When this post-exercise serum was applied to bowel cancer cells in laboratory conditions, it altered the activity of over 1,300 genes.

Key genetic changes included activation of the PNKP gene, which repairs DNA damage, and suppression of signals that promote cell division.

These findings align with earlier research showing exercise reduces inflammation and modulates immune responses, but the scale of genetic impact observed here is unprecedented in human trials.

Dr. Sam Orange said:

"Exercise sends powerful signals through the bloodstream that can directly influence thousands of genes in cancer cells."

Dr. Orange added:

"Even a single workout can make a difference... every step, every session, counts."

The study explicitly acknowledges its limitations: the small sample size (30 participants) and lack of long-term outcome data. Researchers emphasize these results require validation through larger, controlled trials before clinical applications can be considered.

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