Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 17, 2026

Utilizing 18F-FDG PET/CT Imaging and Quantitative Histology to Measure Dynamic Changes in the Glucose Metabolism in Mouse Models of Lung Cancer
Published on: July 21, 2018
Pyruvate kinase type M2 and its role in tumor growth and spreading
Sybille Mazurek1, C Bruce Boschek, Ferdinand Hugo
1Institute of Biochemistry & Endocrinology, Veterinary Faculty, University of Giessen, Frankfurter Strasse 100, 35392 Giessen, Germany. Sybille.Mazurek@vetmed.uni-giessen.de
Abstract:
Proliferating cells and tumor cells in particular express the pyruvate kinase isoenzyme type M2 (M2-PK). Within the tumor metabolome M2-PK regulates the proportions of glucose carbons that are channelled to synthetic processes (inactive dimeric form) or used for glycolytic energy production (highly active tetrameric form, a component of the glycolytic enzyme complex). In tumor cells, the dimeric form of M2-PK (Tumor M2-PK) is always predominant. The dimerization is caused by direct interaction of M2-PK with certain oncoproteins. The switch between the tetrameric and dimeric form of M2-PK allows tumor cells to survive in environments with varying oxygen und nutrient supply.
Related Concept Videos
mTOR Signaling and Cancer Progression
The mTOR pathway or the...
mTOR Signaling and Cancer Progression
The mTOR pathway or the...
Abnormal Proliferation
PI3K/mTOR/AKT Signaling Pathway
Adaptive Mechanisms in Cancer Cells
Some of the advantages that cancer cells have on normal cells include - enhanced ability to divide without terminally differentiating, induce new blood vessel formation,...
Mitogens and the Cell Cycle
