Role of AMPK and its molecular intermediates in subjugating cancer survival mechanism

The gradual energy dissipation of all organisms allows adapting to energy demands. Pathological situations of uncured diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and other obesity-related diseases are caused by an abrupt energy imbalance. As an energy sensor, AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) can regulate the cellular energy status. In case of increased energy demands or insufficient nutrient supply, cells digest their own interior, which is called autophagy. AMPK-mediated autophagy regulates various metabolic and physiological processes and is dysregulated in different chronic conditions. Because of AMPK's critical role in physiology and pathology, it is an emerging target for both prevention and treatment of these uncured diseases. This review discusses the multifaceted role of AMPK on cancer cell survival and inhibition mechanism. First, we discuss the dual role of AMPK on cancer progression and suppression, and we discuss how different AMPK subunit combinations influence the tumor progression and suppression. Next, we discuss what could be the centering point of AMPK that supports promotion or inhibition of the cancer cell growth. Furthermore, we review the role of connecting mechanism of AMPK-mediated molecular intermediates on cancer cell survival and inhibition pathways. Finally, we discuss how AMPK can affect DNA damage and repairing mechanisms, and immune response of host cell and cancer cells.