How Cancer Cells Use Collagen to Grow, Strengthen, and Metastasize

Written by Keith Bishop, Clinical Nutritionist, Cancer Coach, and Retired Pharmacist

Cancer cells can remarkably manipulate their environment to support their growth and spread. One key component of this environment is collagen, a significant protein in the extracellular matrix (ECM). Collagen provides structural support and is crucial in cancer progression and metastasis.

I want to share my concerns since collagen peptide protein powders are popular. 

Collagen peptide proteins, derived from enzymatic hydrolysis of collagen, provide high doses of type I and III collagen. These collagens are particularly significant in cancer progression, as they contribute to the structural integrity and stiffness of the tumor microenvironment. Cancer cells can exploit these collagen-rich environments to enhance their adhesion, migration, and invasion capabilities, promoting tumor growth and metastasis. Studies have shown that cancer cells can utilize collagen peptides to create a protective extracellular matrix, aiding in immune evasion and tumor survival. This highlights the importance of understanding collagen's role in cancer biology and developing targeted therapies to disrupt these interactions.

The Role of Collagen in Cancer Progression

Collagen is dynamic and continuously remodeling ECM protein. It interacts with cancer cells through various receptors and signaling pathways, promoting cell adhesion, migration, and invasion. Studies have shown collagen-rich environments enhance tumor stiffness, promoting cancer cell survival and proliferation. Additionally, collagen fragments have been identified as diagnostic markers of metastatic tumors and are associated with poor prognosis in people with cancer.

Tumor Microenvironment: Type III collagen is often found in the tumor microenvironment, providing structural support to cancer cells. This support helps cancer cells adhere, proliferate, and invade surrounding tissues.

Desmoplasia: This refers to the growth of dense fibrous or connective tissue around a tumor. Type III collagen is a major component of this fibrous tissue, which can create a barrier that protects cancer cells from the immune system and therapeutic agents.

Immune Evasion: The dense collagen matrix can also hinder the infiltration of immune cells into the tumor, allowing cancer cells to evade immune surveillance and continue growing unchecked.

Collagen and Cancer Metastasis

Metastasis, the spread of cancer to other parts of the body, is a complex process that involves multiple steps. Collagen plays a significant role in this process by facilitating the invasion of cancer cells into surrounding tissues and their subsequent colonization of new organs. Various molecules, including integrins, discoidin domain receptors, and tyrosine kinase receptors enable the interaction between cancer cells and collagen. These interactions form a fibrotic tumor microenvironment supporting tumor growth and metastasis.

The Impact of Collagen on Cancer Treatment

Collagen's influence on cancer progression has implications for treatment strategies. Inhibiting collagen synthesis or disrupting collagen-cancer cell interactions has shown promise in preclinical studies, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for cancer treatment. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms collagen contributes to cancer progression and develop effective therapies.

Plant-Based Protein Powders vs. Whey Protein

Regarding dietary protein supplements, both plant-based protein powders and whey protein have benefits but may offer different advantages for people with cancer.

Plant-Based Protein Powders for Cancer

Plant-based protein powders are derived from beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds. They are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential amino acids, contributing to overall health and may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Plant-based proteins are also associated with improved gut health and reduced inflammation, which can benefit people with cancer.

Whey Protein Powder for Cancer

Whey protein is a high-quality, complete protein derived from milk. It contains all nine essential amino acids and is highly digestible, making it an excellent source of protein for muscle growth and maintenance. Whey protein has also shown potential anti-cancer properties, although more research is needed to confirm these effects.

Conclusion – Collagen Peptide Powders and Cancer

Understanding the role of collagen in cancer progression and metastasis is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies. While both plant-based protein powders and whey protein offer benefits, their choice may depend on individual dietary needs and preferences. Consulting with a healthcare professional and Cancer Coach can help determine the best protein source for people with cancer challenges.

The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your cancer treatment plan.

My Favorite Protein Powder Sources Include

Anthony’s Organic Hemp Seed Protein: Amazon Link - https://a.co/d/164b3d2

Carlyle Grass Fed Whey Protein Powder: Amazon Link - https://a.co/d/1mpEo40

I'm available to assess your challenges and coach you to enhance cancer challenge outcomes.
Click here to learn more about Cancer Coaching. 

Reference Sources

Martins Cavaco, A.C., Dâmaso, S., Casimiro, S. et al. Collagen biology making inroads into prognosis and treatment of cancer progression and metastasis. Cancer Metastasis Rev 39, 603–623 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10555-020-09888-5

Xu, S., Xu, H., Wang, W. et al. The role of collagen in cancer: from bench to bedside. J Transl Med 17, 309 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12967-019-2058-1

Shi, R., Zhang, Z., Zhu, A., Xiong, X., Zhang, J., Xu, J., Sy, S., & Li, C. (2022). Targeting type I collagen for cancer treatment. International Journal of Cancer, 151(5), 665-683. https://doi.org/10.1002/ijc.33985

Piersma B, Hayward MK, Weaver VM. Fibrosis and cancer: A strained relationship. Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer. 2020 Apr;1873(2):188356. doi: 10.1016/j.bbcan.2020.188356. Epub 2020 Mar 5. PMID: 32147542; PMCID: PMC7733542.v https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7733542/

Collagen and Cancer https://www.canceractive.com/article/collagen-and%20cancer

Daniela De Martino, Jose Javier Bravo-Cordero; Collagens in Cancer: Structural Regulators and Guardians of Cancer Progression. Cancer Res 1 May 2023; 83 (9): 1386–1392. https://doi.org/10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-22-2034

Is plant-based protein for you? Here's what you need to know https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/is-plant-based-protein-for-you-heres-what-you-need-to-know

Zhu Y, Yang M, Xu W, et al. The collagen matrix regulates the survival and function of pancreatic islets. Endocrine. 2024;83(3):537-547. doi:10.1007/s12020-023-03592-4 https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12020-023-03592-4

Borst, R., Meyaard, L. & Pascoal Ramos, M.I. Understanding the matrix: collagen modifications in tumors and their implications for immunotherapy. J Transl Med 22, 382 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12967-024-05199-3