Exploring the mechanistic underpinnings of cancer-induced cachexia.

Cancer cachexia (CC) is described as a multifactorial syndrome of progressive, unintentional weight loss occurring in 30-90% of advanced cancer patients and 80% of metastatic cancer patients. Despite the major burden CC poses on both patient quality of life and life expectancy, knowledge of this disease is still limited. There is much room for further research, both mechanistic and functional. Specifically, this dissertation will explore: (1) preclinical research reporting and replication standards, (2) sex differences in CC-imposed heart dysfunction, and (3) the influence of obesity on CC.