Metabolic Reprogramming in Cancer: Targeting Energy Dysregulation

Abstract

Cancer metabolism, a hallmark of tumorigenesis, signifies a fundamental shift in cellular energy utilization and biosynthesis. The altered metabolic phenotype in cancer cells, characterized by distinct adaptations in glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism, fuels the uncontrolled proliferation and survival of tumors. This review delineates the intricate interplay between metabolic reprogramming and oncogenesis, spotlighting pivotal mechanisms such as the Warburg effect, mitochondrial dysfunction, dysregulated lipid metabolism, and amino acid utilization.

Understanding these metabolic alterations offers insights into the intricate signaling networks and adaptations that sustain tumor growth, providing a foundation for novel therapeutic strategies. Targeting metabolic vulnerabilities emerges as a promising avenue, with potential interventions aimed at disrupting specific metabolic pathways in cancer cells. Additionally, the integration of metabolic profiling into precision medicine holds promise for tailoring therapies based on individual tumor metabolic phenotypes, thereby improving treatment efficacy and patient outcomes.

This review synthesizes current knowledge on cancer metabolism, elucidating its multifaceted implications in tumorigenesis and therapeutic interventions. Keywords: cancer metabolism, Warburg effect, mitochondrial dysfunction, lipid metabolism, amino acid utilization, targeted therapy.