New Research Reveals Diabetes May Accelerate Breast Cancer Growth - Video

A recent study published in Communications Biology by researchers at Boston University's Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine has revealed how type 2 diabetes alters immune responses within breast tumors, helping explain why diabetic women face more aggressive breast cancer and poorer outcomes. The study focused on microscopic particles called exosomes, which circulate in the bloodstream and influence the body’s immune system.

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