Metabolic reprogramming of the tumor microenvironment by p62 and its partners

The concerted metabolic reprogramming across cancer and normal cellular compartments of the tumor microenvironment can favor tumorigenesis by increasing the survival and proliferating capacities of transformed cells. p62 has emerged as a critical signaling adaptor, beyond its role in autophagy, by playing an intricate context-dependent role in metabolic reprogramming of the cell types of the tumor and stroma, which shapes the tumor microenvironment to control tumor progression. Focusing on metabolic adaptations, we review the cellular processes upstream and downstream of p62 that regulate how distinct cell types adapt to the challenging and evolving environmental conditions during tumor initiation and progression. In addition, we describe partners of p62 that, in a collaborative or independent manner, can also rewire cell metabolism. Finally, we discuss the potential therapeutic implications of targeting p62 in cancer, considering its multifaceted roles in diverse cell types of the tumor microenvironment.