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Glutathione metabolism in cancer progression and treatment resistance

Ankita Bansal1, M Celeste Simon2,3

  • 1Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.

The Journal of Cell Biology
|June 20, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Glutathione (GSH) is a key antioxidant in cells. While beneficial, high GSH levels can promote cancer progression and treatment resistance, suggesting it as a therapeutic target.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Glutathione (GSH) is the primary intracellular antioxidant, crucial for maintaining cellular redox homeostasis.
  • GSH plays vital roles in detoxification, cysteine preservation, and influencing cancer cell therapeutic resistance.
  • GSH metabolism exhibits dual roles in malignancies, impacting carcinogen detoxification and cell survival.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent findings on the role of glutathione in tumor initiation and progression.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms by which GSH confers resistance to cancer treatments.
  • To explore targeting GSH metabolism as a strategy to enhance cancer therapy efficacy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of recent studies on glutathione's role in cancer.
  • Analysis of mechanisms linking GSH to tumor progression and treatment resistance.
  • Discussion of therapeutic strategies targeting GSH synthesis and utilization.

Main Results:

  • Elevated GSH levels are associated with increased tumor progression and metastasis.
  • GSH contributes to acquired resistance in cancer cells against therapies like chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
  • Alterations in GSH metabolic pathways significantly affect cancer cell survival and treatment outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • Glutathione's multifaceted role in cancer necessitates a deeper understanding of its metabolic pathways.
  • Targeting GSH synthesis or utilization presents a promising strategy to overcome treatment resistance in various cancers.
  • Modulating GSH levels could enhance the susceptibility of tumor cells to conventional therapies, improving patient outcomes.

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