The researchers analyzed patient-derived breast cancer organoids—miniature tumors grown in the lab—and exposed them to blood from individuals with and without type 2 diabetes. They found that exosomes from diabetic patients weakened immune cells within tumors, reducing the body’s ability to fight cancer. In contrast, organoids exposed to non-diabetic blood maintained stronger immune defenses.
Type 2 diabetes affects more than 500 million people worldwide and is linked to a 20-30% higher risk of developing breast cancer. Women with diabetes also experience greater mortality from breast cancer compared to those without diabetes. Until now, the biological reasons behind these disparities were unclear.
Lead researchers explained that diabetes-altered exosomes reprogram immune cells inside tumors, allowing cancer cells to grow more aggressively and making treatments like immunotherapy less effective. This mechanism could also apply to other cancers that evade immune responses.
The findings suggest future possibilities such as developing drugs to block harmful exosomes, customizing immunotherapy for diabetic patients, and increasing cancer screening for women with diabetes. Meanwhile, doctors emphasize prevention through blood sugar control, healthy diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight.
This study highlighted the complex interplay between chronic diseases, reminding us that diabetes’ impacts extend beyond sugar metabolism to shape the immune system’s fight against cancer—pointing toward more personalized treatment approaches.
Reference: Ennis, C.S., Seen, M., Chen, A. et al. Plasma exosomes from individuals with type 2 diabetes drive breast cancer aggression in patient-derived organoids. Commun Biol 8, 1276 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s42003-025-08663-y
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.