Abstract: A method of ameliorating cachexia in a subject in need thereof comprising administering to the subject a therapeutically effective amount of a steroidal lactone is provided. In particular, the steroidal lactone may be withanolide A (WFA) or derivatives thereof. In particular, the method of treatment inhibits development of cachexia associated with ovarian cancer, as well as the induction of cardiac atrophy. Administration of WFA modulates expression of genes that activate satellite cells and inhibit myofibrillar atrophy.

Abstract: A method for treating a cancer is provided that comprises identifying a subject in need of treatment for a cancer and administering to the subject a composition that is comprised of a plurality of a ligand for a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone receptor and a plurality of a chemotherapeutic agent, where each ligand and each chemotherapeutic agent are conjugated to a nanoparticle. Further provided are methods for detecting a cancer in a subject that comprise administering to a subject an imaging agent comprised of a plurality of a ligand for a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone receptor conjugated to a nanoparticle.