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Glutaminolysis as a target for cancer therapy
1Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology, Winship Cancer Institute, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA.
Abstract:
Cancer cells display an altered metabolic circuitry that is directly regulated by oncogenic mutations and loss of tumor suppressors. Mounting evidence indicates that altered glutamine metabolism in cancer cells has critical roles in supporting macromolecule biosynthesis, regulating signaling pathways, and maintaining redox homeostasis, all of which contribute to cancer cell proliferation and survival. Thus, intervention in these metabolic processes could provide novel approaches to improve cancer treatment. This review summarizes current findings on the role of glutaminolytic enzymes in human cancers and provides an update on the development of small molecule inhibitors to target glutaminolysis for cancer therapy.
Insights
Altered glutamine metabolism fuels cancer cell growth and survival. Targeting glutaminolysis with small molecule inhibitors offers a promising new strategy for cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Metabolism
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Cancer cells exhibit altered metabolic pathways crucial for their survival.
- Glutamine metabolism is increasingly recognized for its significant role in cancer progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of glutaminolytic enzymes in human cancers.
- To update on the development of small molecule inhibitors targeting glutaminolysis for cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current findings.
- Analysis of small molecule inhibitors targeting glutaminolysis.
Main Results:
- Glutamine metabolism supports macromolecule biosynthesis, signaling pathways, and redox homeostasis in cancer cells.
- Several glutaminolytic enzymes are implicated in various human cancers.
- Development of small molecule inhibitors against glutaminolysis is advancing.
Conclusions:
- Targeting glutamine metabolism presents a viable therapeutic strategy for cancer treatment.
- Further research into glutaminolytic enzymes and their inhibitors is warranted for effective cancer therapy.
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