New research reveals a connection between sugar, cancer, and dependence on breathing machines — microRNA-320a. Scientists show microRNA-320a as responsible for aiding glycolysis. Glycolysis, the process of converting sugar into energy, fuels some cancers and contributes to the wasting of unused muscles when people are using ventilators. Identifying ways to use microRNA-320a to starve tumors and keep unused muscles strong represents a therapeutic leap for numerous health conditions.