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Updated: May 16, 2026

Determination of the Glycogen Content in Cyanobacteria
Published on: July 17, 2017
PGAMgnam style: a glycolytic switch controls biosynthesis
Barbara Chaneton1, Eyal Gottlieb
1Cancer Research UK, The Beatson Institute for Cancer Research, Switchback Road, Glasgow G61 1BD, UK.
Abstract:
Therapeutic strategies that target glycolysis and biosynthetic pathways in cancer cells are currently the main focus of research in the field of cancer metabolism. In this issue of Cancer Cell, Hitosugi and colleagues show that targeting PGAM1 could be a way of "killing two birds with one stone".
Insights
Targeting phosphoglycerate mutase 1 (PGAM1) in cancer metabolism offers a dual therapeutic approach. This strategy simultaneously impacts glycolysis and biosynthetic pathways, presenting a novel approach for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Cancer Metabolism Research
- Biochemical Pathways in Oncology
Background:
- Current cancer research prioritizes targeting glycolysis and biosynthetic pathways.
- Understanding metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer cells is crucial for developing effective therapies.
Discussion:
- Hitosugi and colleagues identify phosphoglycerate mutase 1 (PGAM1) as a key target.
- Targeting PGAM1 presents a "two birds with one stone" therapeutic strategy.
- This approach impacts both glycolysis and essential biosynthetic processes.
Key Insights:
- PGAM1 plays a critical role in cancer cell metabolism.
- Inhibiting PGAM1 disrupts multiple cancer-sustaining pathways.
- This offers a promising avenue for novel cancer therapeutics.
Outlook:
- Further research into PGAM1 inhibitors is warranted.
- Exploring combination therapies involving PGAM1 targeting could enhance efficacy.
- This discovery opens new possibilities in the field of cancer metabolism and treatment.
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