Cancer Metabolism
Cancer metabolism refers to the way cancer cells obtain and use energy to support their growth and survival. Unlike normal cells, which primarily use oxygen to break down glucose (a sugar), cancer cells often rely on a process that doesn't need oxygen, even when it's available. This allows them to grow rapidly, using more sugar and other nutrients. Understanding cancer metabolism helps researchers find potential treatments by targeting the unique ways cancer cells generate energy, potentially stopping their growth while sparing normal cells.
Additional Insights
-
Cancer metabolism refers to how cancer cells process nutrients and energy differently from normal cells. Unlike healthy cells that primarily use oxygen to convert sugars into energy, many cancer cells rely on a process called fermentation, which occurs without oxygen. This allows them to rapidly generate energy and building blocks for growth, even in low-oxygen environments. As a result, cancer cells often consume large amounts of glucose and other nutrients, leading to unique metabolic patterns. Understanding these differences helps researchers develop targeted therapies that can disrupt the cancer cells' energy production and growth.