Inflammation hinders anabolic potential of nutritional support in cancer: findings from the Protein Recommendation to Increase Muscle (PRIMe) trial.
Am J Clin NutrAug 10, 2026 (epub)
Mariëlle Pkj Engelen, Katherine L Ford, Kathryn N Porter Starr et al.
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In 30 seconds
The PRIMe trial analyzed the impact of baseline inflammation on the effectiveness of high-protein nutritional support in patients with stage II-IV colorectal cancer. This randomized controlled trial found that elevated IL-6 levels significantly hindered the anabolic response to protein intake. A minimum increase of 27 g/d of protein was necessary to achieve positive lean soft tissue changes.
Key findings
- Mean protein intake increased by 22% at 6 weeks and 29% at 12 weeks.
- 77% of lean soft tissue response variation at 6 weeks was explained by baseline IL-6 and protein intake changes.
- At least 27 g/d of supplemental protein is required for positive lean soft tissue change.
Why it matters
Understanding the role of inflammation in nutritional support can help clinicians tailor dietary interventions for cancer patients, potentially improving outcomes related to muscle mass and overall health.