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Effects of randomized controlled exercise and dietary interventions on muscle mass, volume, fat infiltration, and clinical outcomes in patients with malignant melanoma

 

BASIC DATA OF THE RESEARCH PROJECT

  • ARIS code: J7-70257

  • TITLE: Effects of randomized controlled exercise and dietary interventions on muscle mass, volume, fat infiltration, and clinical outcomes in patients with malignant melanoma

  • PRICE CLASS: C

  • PROJECT LEADER: Damir Zubac, PhD

  • LEADING ORGANISATION: The Science and Research Centre Koper (ZRS Koper)

  • PROJECT LEADER AT INSTITUTE OF ONCOLOGY: Prof. Nada Rotovnik Kozjek, PhD

  • DURATION: 1.3.2026—28.2.2029

  • FINANCING: Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency

 

SHORT SUMMARY:

Malignant melanoma is on the rise in the European Union, and Slovenia is among the countries with the highest incidence. Despite the progress of immunotherapy (immune checkpoint inhibitors), which has greatly improved survival, challenges remain, such as early metastasis, high variability in treatment responses, and toxicity leading to muscle loss and poor quality of life. The proposed randomized clinical trial will study a six-month resistance training program combined with a nutritional intervention in patients receiving immunotherapy treatment. The aim is to evaluate the impact on muscle volume, myosteatosis, physical performance, immune markers, and clinical outcomes such as treatment tolerance and frequency of therapy interruptions. The project represents the first study of its kind in patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors, is in line with the national cancer strategy, and has the potential to improve clinical patient care and reduce healthcare costs.