EFFECT OF PROTEIN-INTAKE ON TUMOR-GROWTH AND HOST SURVIVAL IN TUMOR-BEARING ANIMALS

Nutritional repletion of the tumor-bearing host remains controversial. The present study was performed to determine the effect of protein in take on tumor growth and host survival in tumor-bearing animals. Forty -three female C2H mice with subcutaneous mammary tumor implants (MA 16 /C) were randomized to receive standard protein diet or an isocaloric, protein-depleted diet ad libitum per os. Body weight and tumor volume were measured throughout the study and ail animals were maintained on these diets until death. Body weight was significantly greater in ani mals receiving standard protein intake compared to those given the pro tein-depleted diet. However, tumor growth was significantly stimulated and host survival reduced in animals given standard protein diet comp ared to animals maintained on protein-depleted diet. Thus, exogenous p rotein intake preferentially benefitted tumor versus host anabolism in this animal model with significant reduction in host survival.