Pathophysiological Integration of Metabolic Reprogramming in Breast Cancer.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Cancer Metabolism
• Tumor Microenvironment

Background:

• Cancer is characterized by metabolic alterations enabling tumor growth.
• Oncogenic mutations in tumor cells drive proliferation and progression.
• Metabolic reorganization is crucial for cancer cells' energy demands and environmental adaptation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review metabolic changes in breast cancer.
• To explore the interaction between tumor cells and stromal myofibroblasts.
• To understand how metabolic changes contribute to tumor growth.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on metabolic alterations in cancer.
• Analysis of the interplay between tumor parenchymal cells and stromal myofibroblasts.
• Examination of nutrient exchange and microenvironmental changes.

Main Results:

• Tumor cells exhibit increased protein anabolism and synthesis for proliferation.
• Stromal myofibroblasts undergo catabolism and autophagy, supplying nutrients to tumor cells.
• Metabolic changes create a nutrient-deficient, acidic tumor interstitium, promoting growth and immune suppression.

Conclusions:

• Metabolic reprogramming is a hallmark of cancer, essential for tumor growth and progression.
• The interaction between tumor and stromal cells dictates metabolic changes.
• These metabolic shifts profoundly impact the tumor microenvironment, fostering tumor growth and immune evasion.