This project aims to leverage the rich clinical, genetic, and imaging resources of the UK Biobank to investigate metabolic, structural, and genetic determinants of cancer development, progression, and outcomes, with a particular focus on fibroproliferative and structural soft tissue changes.
First, we will evaluate metabolic and lifestyle factors (adiposity, inflammation, metabolic syndrome components) in relation to cancer incidence and mortality using prospective cohort analyses. Second, we will incorporate imaging-derived phenotypes-including body composition, visceral and subcutaneous adiposity, and craniofacial/soft tissue measures-to explore structural correlates of cancer and associated fibrotic or fibroproliferative conditions. Third, we will examine genetic determinants through GWAS and Mendelian randomization, focusing on shared pathways between cancer, metabolism, and fibrosis (including keloid and hypertrophic scars). Finally, we aim to develop and validate multi-modal predictive models for cancer and fibrotic outcomes integrating clinical, imaging, and genetic data.
Findings from this study will deepen our understanding of tumor-host-tissue interactions, clarify the role of fibrosis and structural tissue changes in oncologic risk and outcomes, and support the development of precision prevention and reconstructive strategies.