Imagine, just by having more fun, being more socially engaged and doing mentally challenging activities, you might be able to turbocharge your immune system and potentially reduce the risk of cancer. This idea isn’t just a wild theory, but a conclusion drawn from a study conducted at Ohio State University on lab mice.
Researchers induced cancer in mice and then provided the test group with a more spacious living environment, an assortment of toys, and running wheels. Surprisingly, after three weeks, the tumors in these mice shrank by a notable 77 percent. Even more astonishing was the fact that 5 percent of these mice went into complete remission, meaning that their bodies were no longer showing signs of cancer.
Matthew During, one of the researchers, commented, “Animals’ interaction with the environment has a profound influence on the growth of cancer — more than we knew was possible.” It turned out that the extra space provided to the mice contributed to their increased social interactions, which ultimately led to the reduction in tumor growth.
When further research was conducted to understand the mechanisms behind this phenomenon, it was discovered that physical activities by themselves were not the primary reason. Mice who only exercised more without any changes to their environment didn’t show the same tumor reduction. Instead, the findings suggest that it was the impact of these social interactions which led to a shift in their metabolism.
The test group of mice demonstrated lower levels of a hormone called leptin, which is produced by fat tissue. This hormonal change indicated a significant shift in the animals’ metabolism. Furthermore, the researchers found that the immune systems of the mice appeared to be ramped up, mounting a stronger defense against cancer.
Drilling deeper into the study, During and his colleagues identified a growth factor called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) as the crucial factor for these improvements. When they artificially increased BDNF levels in other mice, a reduced tumor burden was also observed. However, mice lacking BDNF did not experience any benefits from an enriched environment.
The study, published in the prestigious journal Cell in 2010, challenges the commonly held notion that all types of stress are harmful. On one hand, certain stressors can undoubtedly be detrimental, but on the other, low levels of stress or the right type of stress can actually prove beneficial. During clarifies: “A lot of people think stress is bad, but our data shows the animals aren’t just happy. Antidepressants won’t give you the same effect.”
Surprisingly, the mice in the enriched environment exhibited higher levels of stress hormones called glucocorticoids. This suggests that by engaging in stimulating, mentally challenging activities or seeking richer social and physical interactions, the mice felt some level of stress. However, this particular type of stress seemed to enhance their overall health and well-being.
Now, while we cannot directly apply these findings to humans, it does seem reasonable to think that a similar relationship might exist. At the very least, these results encourage us to re-evaluate our preconceived notions about stress, fun, and cancer. In fact, other studies have shown that humans who participate in fulfilling social connections may enjoy a longer life and have better mental health.
If this research is any indication, avoiding stress like the plague might not be the best strategy. Instead, some stress arising from social and physical challenges could lead to a richer, more fulfilling life, and potentially better health.
