Colorectal cancer, the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Canada, often leads to cancer-associated cachexia (CCx), a syndrome characterized by significant skeletal muscle wasting that diminishes treatment efficacy and patient outcomes. With no effective pharmaceutical or nutritional interventions available, this project explores exercise as a potential mitigator of CCx-induced muscle loss. Specifically, the focus is on understanding how exercise influences the sphingolipid profile - a group of bioactive lipids implicated in muscle health. The findings could unveil novel mechanisms by which exercise counteracts CCx, potentially guiding the development of new therapeutic strategies to improve outcomes for patients. 

By uncovering novel therapeutic strategies for managing CCx, the work could significantly improve the quality of life and treatment outcomes for colorectal cancer patiens. Identifying the role of exercise in modulating sphingolipid profiles may pave the way for integrative approaches that enhance muscle health and resilience in cancer care.