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Updated: Oct 4, 2025
Author Spotlight: Transmitochondrial Cybrid Generation Using Cancer Cell Lines
Published on: March 17, 2023
Targeting OXPHOS and the electron transport chain in cancer; Molecular and therapeutic implications
John Greene1, Ashvina Segaran2, Simon Lord1
1Department of Oncology, University of Oxford, Churchill Hospital, Oxford, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) takes place in mitochondria and is the process whereby cells use carbon fuels and oxygen to generate ATP. Formerly OXPHOS was thought to be reduced in tumours and that glycolysis was the critical pathway for generation of ATP but it is now clear that OXPHOS, at least in many tumour types, plays a critical role in delivering the bioenergetic and macromolecular anabolic requirements of cancer cells. There is now great interest in targeting the OXPHOS and the electron transport chain for cancer therapy and in this review article we describe current therapeutic approaches and challenges.
Insights
Oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) is crucial for cancer cell energy and growth, contrary to previous beliefs. Targeting OXPHOS and the electron transport chain presents a promising avenue for novel cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Mitochondria generate ATP through oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) using fuels and oxygen.
- Historically, glycolysis was considered the primary ATP source in tumors, with OXPHOS thought to be reduced.
- Emerging evidence highlights OXPHOS's critical role in meeting cancer cells' bioenergetic and anabolic demands.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of OXPHOS in cancer.
- To discuss therapeutic strategies targeting OXPHOS and the electron transport chain.
- To identify challenges in developing OXPHOS-targeted cancer therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on OXPHOS in cancer.
- Analysis of current therapeutic approaches targeting OXPHOS.
- Discussion of the challenges and future directions in the field.
Main Results:
- OXPHOS is essential for the bioenergetic and macromolecular needs of many cancer types.
- Targeting OXPHOS and the electron transport chain is a growing area of cancer therapy research.
- Significant challenges remain in developing effective and safe OXPHOS-targeted cancer treatments.
Conclusions:
- OXPHOS plays a vital role in cancer cell metabolism and survival.
- Targeting OXPHOS offers a promising strategy for cancer treatment.
- Further research is needed to overcome challenges and optimize OXPHOS-based cancer therapies.
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