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Quantitative biochemical analysis of samples from squamous cell carcinoma
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City 73190-3048, USA.
Summary
Tumor cells show higher malate and lactate dehydrogenase activity than surrounding stroma, indicating altered energy metabolism. Enzyme activity varies between tumors, suggesting diverse metabolic strategies in cancer.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Oncology
- Metabolic pathways
Background:
- Cancer cells exhibit altered energy metabolism compared to normal cells.
- Understanding tumor metabolism is crucial for developing targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the contribution of aerobic and anaerobic processes to energy metabolism in squamous cell carcinomas.
- To compare enzyme activity in tumor tissue versus surrounding stroma.
Main Methods:
- Microdissection of tumor, stroma, and adjacent nontumor tissues from three squamous cell carcinomas.
- Assay of malate dehydrogenase (MDH) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activities.
Main Results:
- MDH and LDH activities were significantly higher in tumor tissue than in tumor stroma for all samples.
- The levels of MDH and LDH activities varied considerably among the three tumors studied.
- This suggests differential reliance on aerobic and anaerobic pathways for energy production in different tumors.
Conclusions:
- Tumor metabolism is characterized by increased activity of enzymes involved in both aerobic and anaerobic energy production.
- Quantitative assessment of these enzymes can provide insights into the metabolic heterogeneity of tumors.
- Enzyme activity profiling may serve as a valuable tool for understanding tumor metabolism and guiding therapeutic strategies.