A new study by researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine has raised alarm over a popular component in everyday cooking oils, linking it to the accelerated growth of one of the most aggressive forms of breast cancer.
The study, published in Science on March 14, reveals that linoleic acid—an omega-6 fatty acid commonly found in seed oils like soybean, safflower, and sunflower oil—may promote the growth of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a particularly invasive and hard-to-treat subtype of breast cancer.
Unlike hormone-sensitive breast cancers, TNBC does not respond to traditional hormone therapies and has a lower five-year survival rate of around 77%, compared to 90% for other forms. The new findings suggest that diets rich in linoleic acid could increase susceptibility to this cancer subtype.
The researchers discovered that linoleic acid binds to a protein called FABP5, which is found in high amounts in TNBC cells. This interaction activates a major growth pathway, fueling cancer progression. In mouse models, a diet high in linoleic acid led to significantly faster tumor growth.
“This discovery helps clarify the relationship between dietary fats and cancer and sheds light on how to define which patients might benefit the most from specific nutritional recommendations in a personalized manner,” said senior author Dr. John Blenis, the Anna-Maria and Stephen Kellen Professor of Cancer Research at Weill Cornell Medicine.
Beyond seed oils, linoleic acid is also present in animal-based products such as pork and eggs. While omega-6 fats are essential in moderation, experts now advise caution in their excessive intake, particularly through processed and fried foods, due to their inflammatory properties and potential role in cancer development.
The findings could lead to new dietary guidelines and even pharmaceutical interventions to help prevent and manage aggressive cancers.
As the research community continues to explore the impact of diet on disease, this study underscores the importance of personalized nutrition and informed food choices in cancer prevention strategies.