The hallmarks of cancer metabolism: Still emerging

The role of lactate metabolism in retinoblastoma tumorigenesis and ferroptosis resistance

The Warburg effect, a hallmark of cancer, describes the preference of cancer cells for glucose metabolism via aerobic glycolysis, leading to substantial lactate accumulation. However, the role of lactate metabolism in retinoblastoma, the primary intraocular malignancy in children, remains unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the gene expression profiles associated with lactate metabolism in retinoblastoma and their impact on tumorigenesis and ferroptosis resistance. The involvement of metabolic characteristics in retinoblastoma was analyzed by comparing single-cell RNA sequencing transcriptome profiles from normal retina tissues and retinoblastoma tissues from patient samples. The effects of lactate on retinoblastoma cell line viability and its mechanisms were examined both in vitro and in vivo. Single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed enhanced glycolysis in retinoblastoma cells and significant differences in lactate metabolism-related gene expression among various retinoblastoma cell types. Retinoblastoma cell lines with moderate lactate levels exhibited increased viability and resistance to ferroptosis induced by ferroptosis inducers. Additionally, lactate promoted the upregulation of monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1), which facilitated lactate transport, in a dose-dependent manner in retinoblastoma cell lines. Knocking down MCT1 reduced both viability and ferroptosis resistance of retinoblastoma cell lines in a lactate-rich environment. In vivo, disrupting lactate transport through MCT1 inhibition suppressed retinoblastoma tumorigenesis and invasion in a mouse xenograft model, and this effect was reversed by the ferroptosis inhibitor liproxstatin-1. These findings highlighted the crucial role of lactate metabolism in retinoblastoma tumorigenesis and resistance to ferroptosis.

SQLE amplification accelerates esophageal squamous cell carcinoma tumorigenesis and metastasis through oncometabolite 2,3-oxidosqualene repressing Hippo pathway

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide, characterized by a dismal prognosis and elusive therapeutic targets. Dysregulated cholesterol metabolism is a critical hallmark of cancer cells, facilitating tumor progression. Here, we used whole genome sequencing data from several ESCC cohorts to identify the important role of squalene epoxidase (SQLE) in promoting ESCC tumorigenesis and metastasis. Specifically, our findings highlight the significance of 2,3-oxidosqualene, an intermediate metabolite of cholesterol biosynthesis, synthesized by SQLE and metabolized by lanosterol synthase (LSS), as a key regulator of ESCC progression. Mechanistically, the interaction between 2,3-oxidosqualene and vinculin enhances the nuclear accumulation of Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP), thereby increasing YAP/TEAD-dependent gene expression and accelerating both tumor growth and metastasis. In a 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4-NQO)-induced ESCC mouse model, overexpression of Sqle resulted in accelerated tumorigenesis compared to wild-type controls, highlighting the pivotal role of SQLE in vivo. Furthermore, elevated SQLE expression in ESCC patients correlates with a poorer prognoses, suggesting potential therapeutic avenues for treatment. In conclusion, our study elucidates the oncogenic function of 2,3-oxidosqualene as a naturally occurring metabolite and proposes modulation of its levels as a promising therapeutic strategy for ESCC.

The role of SLC7A11 in arsenite-induced oncogenic phenotypes of human bronchial epithelial cells: A metabolic perspective

Chronic arsenic exposure enhances the probability of lung cancer with the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. Glutamine-driven synthetic metabolism, including nucleotide synthesis, amino acid production, TCA cycle replenishment, glutathione synthesis, and lipid biosynthesis, is crucial for both cancer initiation and progression. This study demonstrated that chronic exposure to 0.1 μM arsenite for as long as 36 weeks induced malignant transformation in human bronchial epithelial cells (BEAS-2B). Metabolomics were used to systematically disclose metabolic characteristics in arsenic-transformed malignant (As-TM) cells. Significantly changed metabolites were enriched in alanine, aspartate and glutamate metabolism, arginine biosynthesis, glutamine and glutamate metabolism, glutathione metabolism, butanoate metabolism, TCA cycle, and arginine and proline metabolism. It is worth noting that glutamate located at the intersection of the enriched metabolism pathways. Glutamine deprivation attenuated the oncogenic phenotypes, including capacity of wound healing and proliferation, in As-TM cells. And the expression levels of mRNA and proteins associated with glutamine metabolism-related transporters and enzymes, including SLC7A11, GCLM, and GCLC, were significantly increased, with SLC7A11 exhibiting the most substantial increase. Moreover, arsenite transformation progressively elevated SLC7A11 mRNA and protein levels over time. The SLC7A11 inhibitor sulfasalazine remarkably attenuated arsenite-induced oncogenic phenotypes. Collectively, our data suggest that chronic arsenite exposure enhances glutamine metabolism through upregulation of SLC7A11, thereby promoting cell proliferation and malignant transformation. These results provide new insights for preventive and therapeutic strategies for lung cancer linked to arsenic exposure.

The Warburg effect: The hacked mitochondrial-nuclear communication in cancer

Mitochondrial-nuclear communication is vital for maintaining cellular homeostasis. This communication begins with mitochondria sensing environmental cues and transmitting signals to the nucleus through the retrograde cascade, involving metabolic signals such as substrates for epigenetic modifications, ATP and AMP levels, calcium flux, etc. These signals inform the nucleus about the cell's metabolic state, remodel epigenome and regulate gene expression, and modulate mitochondrial function and dynamics through the anterograde feedback cascade to control cell fate and physiology. Disruption of this communication can lead to cellular dysfunction and disease progression, particularly in cancer. The Warburg effect is the metabolic hallmark of cancer, characterized by disruption of mitochondrial respiration and increased lactate generation from glycolysis. This metabolic reprogramming rewires retrograde signaling, leading to epigenetic changes and dedifferentiation, further reprogramming mitochondrial function and promoting carcinogenesis. Understanding these processes and their link to tumorigenesis is crucial for uncovering tumorigenesis mechanisms. Therapeutic strategies targeting these disrupted pathways, including metabolic and epigenetic components, provide promising avenues for cancer treatment.

Neurturin-induced activation of GFRA2-RET axis potentiates pancreatic cancer glycolysis via phosphorylated hexokinase 2

Pancreatic cancer, characterized by its insidious onset, high invasiveness, resistance to chemotherapy, and a grim prognosis, with a five-year survival rate hovering below 10 %. The identification of novel therapeutic targets addressing tumor progression is therefore critically important. While perineural invasion (PNI) is recognized as a pathological hallmark and key driver of pancreatic cancer progression, its role in metabolic reprogramming of malignant cells has not been fully elucidated. Using integrated metabolomics approaches, we found perineural invasion in pancreatic cancer significantly enhancing glycolytic flux of pancreatic cancer. Our data delineate a neuroendocrine-paracrine signaling axis in which neurturin secreted by neuronal cells binds to the GFRA2 receptor on pancreatic cancer cells, inducing RET kinase recruitment and subsequent heterodimer assembly. This receptor tyrosine kinase complex phosphorylates hexokinase 2 (HK2) at the evolutionarily conserved Ser122 residue, augmenting its hexokinase activity, ultimately driving aerobic glycolysis flux and fueling pancreatic cancer growth. In vivo experiments corroborate our findings, revealing that neurturin blockade effectively halts pancreatic cancer progression and synergizes with RET inhibitors. Our research underscores neurturin as a promising therapeutic target for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.

Emerging roles for fatty acid oxidation in cancer

Fatty acid oxidation (FAO) denotes the mitochondrial aerobic process responsible for breaking down fatty acids (FAs) into acetyl-CoA units. This process holds a central position in the cancer metabolic landscape, with certain tumor cells relying primarily on FAO for energy production. Over the past decade, mounting evidence has underscored the critical role of FAO in various cellular processes such as cell growth, epigenetic modifications, tissue-immune homeostasis, cell signal transduction, and more. FAO is tightly regulated by multiple evolutionarily conserved mechanisms, and any dysregulation can predispose to cancer development. In this view, we summarize recent findings to provide an updated understanding of the multifaceted roles of FAO in tumor development, metastasis, and the response to cancer therapy. Additionally, we explore the regulatory mechanisms of FAO, laying the groundwork for potential therapeutic interventions targeting FAO in cancers within the metabolic landscape.

Gastric cancer cells shuttle lactate to induce inflammatory CAF-like phenotype and function in bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells

Metabolic reprogramming, exemplified by the "Warburg effect," is a hallmark of human cancers, leading to lactate buildup in tumors. Bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs), key contributors to cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), integrate into gastric cancer stroma through interactions with cancer cells. However, the role of lactate in activating BM-MSCs in this context remains unclear. Herein, exogenous lactate induced a pro-tumorigenic phenotype in BM-MSCs, which was blocked by AZD3965. Gastric cancer cells released more lactate under hypoxia than normoxia. While normoxic gastric cancer cells could educate BM-MSCs, hypoxic cells were more effective. However, the effects of the supernatant from gastric cancer cells in both conditions were significantly reduced by AZD3965. Similarly, prevention of lactate production by oxamic acid sodium significantly reduced the effects observed. Lactate-activated BM-MSCs showed NF-κB signaling activation, increased IL-8 secretion, and no change in TGF-β signaling. These activated BM-MSCs promoted gastric cancer cell migration and invasion through IL-8 secretion and enhanced resistance to CD8 + T cell cytotoxicity by upregulating PD-L1. Collectively, gastric cancer cells induce an iCAF-like phenotype and function in BM-MSCs through a lactate shuttle mechanism, emphasizing the role of metabolic reprogramming in cellular communication that fosters a supportive tumor microenvironment. Targeting lactate-related pathways may provide new therapeutic strategies to hinder BM-MSCs' supportive roles in gastric cancer.

S-adenosylmethionine inhibits non-small cell lung cancer and enhances chemosensitivity by targeting the P62/NF-κB axis and regulating autophagy and oxidative stress

Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Despite advances in targeted therapies and immunotherapy, which have improved survival rates, drug resistance and immune-related side effects continue to necessitate the development of new treatments. S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), a key metabolite in the methionine cycle, has indicated potential for cancer therapy and enhancing chemotherapy sensitivity. However, its effects on NSCLC remain undetermined. In our study, SAM inhibits NSCLC growth and enhances chemosensitivity both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistic investigations revealed that SAM plays a significant regulatory role in autophagy and oxidative stress within NSCLC. Furthermore, we identified P62 as a critical target of SAM by constructing biotin-labeled SAM for immunocoprecipitation-mass spectrometry. Both in vitro and in vivo studies confirmed that P62 mediates SAM regulatory effects on NSCLC. Furthermore, by constructing truncated P62 expression plasmids for immunocoprecipitation experiments, we discovered that SAM inhibits the NF-κB signaling pathway by directly targeting the ZZ and TB domains of the P62 protein, thereby blocking autophagy and activating oxidative stress. These findings highlight SAM as a novel inhibitor of the P62/NF-κB axis and suggest that SAM could be a potential therapeutic agent for NSCLC.

Integrative metabolomics and microbiomics analysis reveals distinctive microbiota-metabolites interactions in gastric carcinogenesis

Gastric microbiota and metabolites may interact and play collaborative roles in the carcinogenesis process. This study aims to investigate differential metabolites and microbes, as well as the possible roles of microbe-metabolite interactions in gastric cancer (GC) development. Targeted metabolomics assays and 16S rRNA sequencing were performed to compare metabolic and microbial profiles in gastric tissues from subjects with superficial gastritis/chronic atrophic gastritis (SG/CAG), intestinal metaplasia/low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia (IM/LGIN) and GC. Significant differences were found in metabolic and microbial profiles between the GC and SG/CAG or IM/LGIN groups, respectively (all p < .05). By comparing GC with the other lesions, 69 differential metabolites mainly comprised triglycerides and phosphatidylcholines, and 21 differential microbes included Peptostreptococcus, Lactobacillus, Dialister, Helicobacter pylori, and Streptococcus anginosus (all p < .05). The altered metabolites and microbes in GC were both significantly enriched in the glycerophospholipid metabolism pathway, in which the predicted down-regulation of phospholipase C (plc) and up-regulation of 1-acyl-sn-glycerol-3-phosphate acyltransferase (plsC) by microbiota may affect phosphatidylcholine hydrolysis and triglyceride biosynthesis modules. More and stronger microbe-metabolite correlations in GC compared to the other lesion group further supported the potential microbial regulations to the important metabolites in gastric carcinogenesis, such as Lactobacillus and phosphatidylcholines (.32 ≤ r ≤ .57, all p < .05), Peptostreptococcus (.36 ≤ r ≤ .60, all p < .05) or Dialister (.36 ≤ r ≤ .62, all p < .05) and triglycerides. We simultaneously identified differential metabolites and microbes and their altered correlations between GC and gastric lesions. The main GC-associated phosphatidylcholines and triglycerides may be affected by gastric microbes, which provides new perspectives on the microbiota-metabolite interactions during the development of GC.

Assessing the accuracy of Seismofit® as an estimate of preoperative maximal oxygen consumption in patients with hepato-pancreato-biliary, colorectal, and gastro-oesophageal cancer

Background

Peak oxygen uptake (VO2 peak) measured during cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is commonly used to objectively assess fitness and inform risk stratification. Preoperative CPET is not always universally available. Seismofit® offers a noninvasive, non-exercise alternative for estimating VO2 peak, though it has not been validated in patients awaiting major abdominal cancer surgery.

Methods

Prospective single-centre blinded observational study in patients with hepato-pancreato-biliary, colorectal, or gastro-oesophageal cancer undergoing preoperative assessment. Patients underwent Seismofit® assessment before routine CPET. Primary outcome was the relationship between Seismofit®-estimated VO2 peak and CPET-measured VO2 peak. Secondary outcomes explored the relationship between Seismofit® and CPET for (i) bias and agreement limits; (ii) surgical subgroup; (iii) commonly reported CPET variables; (iv) patient acceptance.

Results

Thirty-three participants (median [interquartile range] age: 67 yr [58-75 yr]; 20 [61%] males) completed both CPET and Seismofit®. No linear association was found between Seismofit®-estimated VO2 peak and CPET-measured VO2 peak: Pearson r=0.111 (95% confidence interval -0.242 to 0.437), R 2=0.012, P=0.539. Compared with CPET, Seismofit® demonstrated a large bias (standard deviation) 12.8 (8.8); 95% limits of agreement (-4.5 to 30.0). No association existed between Seismofit®-estimated VO2 peak and CPET-measured VO2 peak in the hepato-pancreato-biliary or gastro-oesophageal subgroup or between Seismofit®-estimated VO2 peak and commonly reported CPET variables.

Conclusions

There was no evidence of linear association between Seismofit®-estimated VO2 peak and objectively measured VO2 peak by CPET in patients undergoing assessment for major abdominal cancer surgery. This finding was consistent across all subgroup and exploratory analyses. Seismofit® tended to overestimate VO2 peak with a high degree of bias.

Clinical trial registration

NCT05831488.

G-quadruplex in cancer energy metabolism: A potential therapeutic target

In recent years, energy metabolism in cancer has received increasing attention as an important component of tumor biology, and the functions of transcription factors, mitochondria, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the autophagy-lysosome system in which have been elucidated. G-quadruplex (G4) is a molecular switch that regulates gene transcription or translation. As an anticancer target, the effect of G4 on cancer cell proliferation, apoptosis, cycle and autophagy has been recognized. The energy metabolism system is a unified whole composed of transcription factors, metabolic regulators, metabolites and signaling pathways that run through the entire cancer process. However, the role of G4 in this complex metabolic network has not been systematically elucidated. In this review, we analyze the close correlation between G4 and transcription factors, mitochondria, ROS and the autophagy-lysosome system and suggest that G4 can exert a marked effect on cancer energy metabolism by regulating the above mentioned key regulatory elements. The anticancer effects of some G4 ligands through regulation of energy metabolism have also been summarized, confirming the clear involvement of G4 in energy metabolism. Although much more research is needed, we propose that G4 may play a critical role in the complex energy metabolism system of cancer, which is a promising target for anticancer strategies focusing on energy metabolism.

Lipid metabolism in cancer: Exploring phospholipids as potential biomarkers

Aberrant lipid metabolism is increasingly recognized as a hallmark of cancer, contributing to tumor growth, metastatic dissemination, and resistance to therapy. Cancer cells reprogram key metabolic pathways-including de novo lipogenesis, lipid uptake, and phospholipid remodeling-to sustain malignant progression and adapt to microenvironmental demands. This review summarizes current insights into the role of lipid metabolic reprogramming in oncogenesis and highlights recent advances in lipidomics that have revealed cancer type- and stage-specific lipid signatures with diagnostic and prognostic relevance. We emphasize the dual potential of lipid metabolic pathways-particularly those involving phospholipids-as sources of clinically relevant biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Enzymes and transporters involved in these pathways have emerged as promising candidates for both diagnostic applications and pharmacological intervention. We also examine persistent challenges hindering the clinical translation of lipid-based approaches, including analytical variability, insufficient biological validation, and the lack of standardized integration into clinical workflows. Furthermore, the review explores strategies to overcome these barriers, highlighting the importance of incorporating lipidomics into multi-omics frameworks, supported by advanced computational tools and AI-driven analytics, to decipher the complexity of tumor-associated metabolic networks. We discuss how such integrative approaches can facilitate the identification of actionable metabolic targets, improve the specificity and robustness of lipid-based biomarkers, and enhance patient stratification in the context of precision oncology.

Prodigiosin inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis through influencing amino acid metabolism in multiple myeloma

The recurrence of drug-resistant and expensive treatment drugs are major causes of the low survival rate of multiple myeloma (MM) patients. Exploring a safe, effective, low-cost and novel drug treatment for MM is a promising strategy to relieve the burden of MM patients. In this study, we found that prodigiosin could inhibit MM cell proliferation and induce MM cell apoptosis, however, it had a lesser cytotoxic effect on normal B cells within the IC50 range of MM cells. In addition, prodigiosin could inhibit the growth of xenograft MM cells in mice. Transcriptomics and targeted amino acid metabolomics confirmed that prodigiosin could regulate amino acid metabolism, and decrease in amino acid utilization by down-regulated aminoacyl tRNA synthetases expression, resulting in slower growth of MM. In conclusion, prodigiosin exerts anticancer effects on MM cells by interfering with the use of amino acids, indicating its potential novel therapeutic application in MM.

Comprehensive analysis of the prognosis and tumor immune microenvironment of ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme transport-related gene UBE2C in hepatocellular carcinoma

Ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme E2 C (UBE2C) is involved in tumor progression and cellular processes in many cancers and is implicated in cell cycle regulation. However, its prognostic significance in Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and the mechanism of tumor immune response are unknown. The expression of UBE2C genes in HCC and normal tissue samples was investigated based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) LIHC dataset and validated by Gene Expression Omnibus and Human Protein Atlas. Subsequently, the relationship between UBE2C gene expression, clinicopathologic parameters, and each survival period was investigated by regression analysis and Kaplan-Meier survival curves. The set of genes co-expressed with UBE2C was constructed and subjected to genomic enrichment analysis, GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. Finally, the relationship between UBE2C gene expression and immune cell infiltration, immunosuppressive molecules in tumor samples from the TCGA-LIHC dataset was investigated. UBE2C gene expression levels were significantly higher in HCC samples compared to normal samples (p < 0.05). Higher UBE2C gene expression was closely associated with higher tumor grade and later tumor stage. The results of Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed that the survival of HCC patients with high UBE2C expression was shorter than that of patients with low UBE2C expression (p < 0.05, HR(CI) = 1.870[1.276, 2.741]). The results of PPI showed a high correlation between cell cycle-related proteins and UBE2C gene expression. Additionally, the highly expressed UBE2C gene was associated with an increased number of immunosuppressive molecules. UBE2C is an independent predictive marker for HCC patients, and the prognostic value of survival is improved when combined with clinical stage information. This study reveals its potential as a prognostic biomarker and as a new target for HCC intervention.

Targeting lipid metabolism in acute myeloid leukemia: biological insights and therapeutic opportunities

Metabolic rewiring is a hallmark of malignant transformation in leukemic cells and the potential offered by its therapeutic targeting has garnered significant attention. The development of clinically relevant metabolic targeted therapies in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has mostly focused on targeting mitochondrial energy production, but progress has been hampered by generalized toxicities. An alternative strategy is to shift the focus from targeting energy production to targeting more specialized metabolic functions, such as energy storage, the regulation of oxidative stress and availability of cofactors needed for the function of specific metabolic reactions. Lipid metabolism plays a role in many of these metabolic functions and its importance in AML maintenance and response to therapy is being increasingly recognized but needs to be adequately interpreted in the context of its interaction with the microenvironment, particularly the adipose niche. In this review, we provide an overview of our current understanding of AML cellular metabolic dependencies on fatty acid and lipid metabolism and discuss their relevance in the context of functional interactions with adipocytes. We highlight unresolved questions about how to best target lipid metabolism and suggest approaches needed to fully understand the interplay between malignant cells and their niche in the context of metabolic dependencies.

Boosting Energy Deprivation via Synchronous Interventions of Oxidative Phosphorylation and Glycolysis for Cancer Therapy with 1,8-Naphthyridine-Piperazine-Dithiocarbamate Ruthenium(II) Polypyridyl Complexes

Bioenergetic therapy targeting mitochondrial bioenergy is a promising therapeutic strategy for cancer. However, its clinical efficacy is limited by the metabolic adaptability of tumor cells, as they can switch between glycolytic and oxidative phosphorylation metabolic phenotypes to maintain energy homeostasis. In this study, we discovered 1,8-naphthyridine-piperazine-dithiocarbamate ruthenium(II) polypyridyl complexes (RuL1) that enhanced energy deprivation by inhibiting the activity of mitochondrial complex I and III, thereby disrupting oxidative phosphorylation. Simultaneously, RuL1 inhibits glycolysis while unexpectedly activating antitumor immunity. This dual metabolic-immunological targeting resulted in enhanced anticancer activity against MGC-803 cells. To the best of our knowledge, RuL1 is the first ruthenium polypyridyl complex reported to achieve high anticancer activity through dual metabolic inhibition.

Targeting oxidative stress-mediated regulated cell death as a vulnerability in cancer

Reactive oxygen species (ROS), regulators of cellular behaviors ranging from signaling to cell death, have complex production and control mechanisms to maintain a dynamic redox balance under physiological conditions. Redox imbalance is frequently observed in tumor cells, where ROS within tolerable limits promote oncogenic transformation, while excessive ROS induce a range of regulated cell death (RCD). As such, targeting ROS-mediated regulated cell death as a vulnerability in cancer. However, the precise regulatory networks governing ROS-mediated cancer cell death and their therapeutic applications remain inadequately characterized. In this Review, we first provide a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms underlying ROS production and control within cells, highlighting their dynamic balance. Next, we discuss the paradoxical nature of the redox system in tumor cells, where ROS can promote tumor growth or suppress it, depending on the context. We also systematically explored the role of ROS in tumor signaling pathways and revealed the complex ROS-mediated cross-linking networks in cancer cells. Following this, we focus on the intricate regulation of ROS in RCD and its current applications in cancer therapy. We further summarize the potential of ROS-induced RCD-based therapies, particularly those mediated by drugs targeting specific redox balance mechanisms. Finally, we address the measurement of ROS and oxidative damage in research, discussing existing challenges and future prospects of targeting ROS-mediated RCD in cancer therapy. We hope this review will offer promise for the clinical application of targeting oxidative stress-mediated regulated cell death in cancer therapy.

Metabolism-associated marker gene-based predictive model for prognosis, targeted therapy, and immune landscape in ovarian cancer: an integrative analysis of single-cell and bulk RNA sequencing with spatial transcriptomics

BACKGROUND

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a formidable gynecological tumor marked with the highest mortality rate. The lack of effective biomarkers and treatment drugs places a substantial proportion of patients with OC at significant risk of mortality, primarily due to metastasis. Glycolysis metabolism, lipid metabolism, choline metabolism, and sphingolipid metabolism are closely intertwined with the occurrence and progression of OC. Thus, it is of utmost significance to identify potent prognostic biomarkers and delve into the exploration of novel therapeutic drugs and targets, in pursuit of advancing the treatment of OC.

METHODS

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data related to OC were analyzed using AUCell scores to identify subpopulations at the single-cell level. The "AddModuleScore" function of the "Seurat" package was adopted to score and select marker genes from four gene sets: glycolysis metabolism, lipid metabolism, choline metabolism, and sphingolipid metabolism. A prognostic model for metabolism-related genes (MRGs) was constructed and validated using OC-related marker genes selected from bulk RNAseq data. The MRG-based prognostic model was further utilized for functional analysis of the model gene set, pan-cancer analysis of genomic variations, spatial transcriptomics analysis, as well as GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. CIBERSORT and ESTIMATE algorithms were utilized for assessing the immune microenvironment of TCGA-ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma (OV) samples. Furthermore, the Tracking Tumor Immunophenotype (TIP) database was employed to examine the anti-cancer immune response in patients with OC. To gain a more in-depth understanding of the process, the frequency of somatic mutations and different types of mutated genes were visualized through the somatic mutation profile of the TCGA database. Moreover, the benefits of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy in individuals with OC were predicted in the TIDE database. In addition, the CMap database was used to predict small-molecule drugs for the treatment of OC. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR, CCK-8, Transwell assay, and in vivo tumor xenograft experiments were conducted to validate the prognostic ability of the MRG Triggering Receptor Expressed on Myeloid Cells-1 (TREM1) in OC.

RESULTS

Monocytes were selected using AUCell scoring, and two subpopulations of monocytes, marked by the expression of C1QC+ tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and FCN1+ resident tissue macrophages (RTMs), were identified as marker genes for OC. Subsequently, a prognostic model consisting of 12 MRGs was constructed and validated. Genomic exploration of the prognostic model unveiled an array of biological functions linked with metabolism. Furthermore, copy number variation (CNV), mRNA expression, single nucleotide variation (SNV), and methylation were significantly different across diverse tumors. Analysis of the TIP database demonstrated that the low-risk group, as determined by the MRG-based prognostic model, exhibited significantly higher anti-cancer immune activity relative to the high-risk group. Furthermore, predictions from the TIDE database revealed that individuals in the high-risk group were more prone to immune evasion when treated with ICIs. The resulting data identified candesartan and PD-123319 as potential therapeutic drugs for OC, possibly acting on the target ATGR2. In vitro and in vivo experiments elucidated that the targeted downregulation of TREM1 effectively inhibited the proliferation and migration of OC cells.

CONCLUSION

The MRG-based prognostic model constructed through the combined analysis of glycolysis metabolism, lipid metabolism, choline metabolism, and sphingolipid metabolism is potentially effective as a prognostic biomarker. Furthermore, candesartan and PD-123319 may be potential therapeutic drugs for OC, possibly acting on the target ATGR2.

PANoptosis as a Two-Edged Sword in Colorectal Cancer: A Pathogenic Mechanism and Therapeutic Opportunity

The examination of PANoptosis in colorectal cancer is particularly important, as many tumor cells can evade apoptotic cell death while continuing to proliferate through inflammatory mediators and creating an immunosuppressive environment. The PANoptosome functions as a regulatory complex that unites proteins governing pyroptotic, apoptotic, and necroptotic pathways, rather than allowing distinct death pathways to compete. The expression and functional status of key molecules within the PANoptosome, such as ZBP1, RIPK1, RIPK3, CASP8, and ASC, may influence tumor viability and immune detection. The tumorigenic impact of PANoptosis is complex and predominantly manifests through chronic inflammation, immune response modulation, and changes in the tumor microenvironment. PANoptosis also aids in the defense against colon cancer by directly eradicating tumor cells and modifying the cellular environment. The expression profile of PANoptosis components may possess prognostic and predictive significance. The therapeutic ramifications of PANoptosis in colorectal cancer are now being investigated through many avenues. It provides an opportunity to develop targeted therapeutic techniques. In contrast, it may also be pertinent in conjunction with immunotherapy, as PANoptosis signifies an immunogenic type of cell death and may consequently enhance the anti-tumor immune response. A thorough comprehension of how these parameters influence PANoptosis is crucial for practical implementation.

Metabolic changes in neuroendocrine neoplasms

Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are a group of highly heterogeneous neoplasms originating from neuroendocrine cells with a gradually increased incidence. Metabolic change is one of the recognized markers of tumor progression, which has been extensively and systematically studied in other malignant tumors. However, metabolic change in NENs has been relatively poorly studied, and systematic reviews are lacking. We reviewed the relationship between metabolic changes and NENs from the aspects of glucose metabolism, lipid metabolism, metabolic syndrome, amino acid metabolism and metabolomics, and discussed the potential therapeutic strategies of metabolic changes for NENs.

A novel LncRNA risk model for disulfidptosis-related prognosis prediction and response to chemotherapy in acute myeloid leukemia

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the most prevalent acute leukemia in adults, is characterized by its heterogeneity, which contributes to a poor prognosis and high recurrence rate. Recently, a unique form of cell death, called disulfidptosis, has been identified, which could transforming our understanding of and strategy for cancer treatment. Consequently, further inquiry is necessary to explore the possible link between disulfidptosis and AML. To facilitate this analysis, the researchers obtained single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data from AML patients using the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. By applying the Cox proportional hazards model and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis, we created a signature of disulfidptosis-related long non-coding RNAs (DRLs). This predictive model was established based on six specific DRLs (AC005076.1, AP002807.1, HDAC4-AS1, L3MBTL4-AS1, LINC01694, and THAP9-AS1). The utility of this model in forecasting the prognosis of AML patients was corroborated by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Moreover, significant variations in the biological functions and signaling pathways were discovered by gene ontology (GO) and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). To further investigate the relationship between immune infiltration, the study assessed variations in immune checkpoint expression and immune cell subset infiltration. Additionally, we used real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) to detect lncRNA expression in AML and healthy control to substantiate our analysis results. In conclusion, the results of this study may help discover novel therapeutic targets and prognostic biomarkers for AML, paving the way for customized precision chemotherapy.

NSD1 mutation status determines metabolic inhibitor sensitivity in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas by regulating mitochondrial respiration

Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are the most common malignant tumors in the head and neck region, characterized by a high recurrence rate and early metastasis. Despite advances in treatment, patient outcomes and prognosis remain poor, highlighting the urgent need for new therapeutic strategies. Recent research has increasingly focused on targeting glucose metabolism as a therapeutic strategy for cancer, revealing multiple promising targets and potential drugs. However, the metabolic heterogeneity among tumors leads to variable sensitivity to metabolic inhibitors in different patients, limiting their clinical utility. In this study, we employed bioinformatics analysis, cell experiments, animal models, and multi-omics approaches to reveal differences in glucose metabolism phenotypes among HNSCC patients and elucidated the underlying molecular mechanisms driving these differences. Our findings showed that NSD1 mutation status affects the glucose metabolism phenotype in HNSCC, with NSD1 wild-type HNSCC exhibiting higher mitochondrial respiration and NSD1 mutant HNSCC showing weaker mitochondrial respiration but enhanced glycolysis. We further demonstrated that NSD1 regulates mitochondrial respiration in HNSCC via epigenetic modulation of the TGFB2/PPARGC1A signaling axis. Additionally, we found that NSD1 wild-type HNSCC is more sensitive to mitochondrial respiration inhibitors, whereas NSD1 mutant HNSCC shows increased sensitivity to glycolysis inhibitors. In summary, we found that NSD1 can epigenetically regulate the TGFB2/PPARGC1A axis to modulate mitochondrial respiration and sensitivity to metabolic inhibitors in HNSCC. These findings suggest a novel strategy for selecting metabolic inhibitors for HNSCC based on the NSD1 gene status of patients. © 2025 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.

De Novo Serine Synthesis Is a Metabolic Vulnerability That Can Be Exploited to Overcome Sunitinib Resistance in Advanced Renal Cell Carcinoma

Sunitinib is an oral tyrosine kinase inhibitor used in treating advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC) that exhibits significant efficacy but faces resistance in 30% of patients. Identifying the molecular mechanisms underlying resistance could enable the development of strategies to enhance sunitinib sensitivity. In this study, we showed that sunitinib induces a metabolic shift leading to increased serine synthesis in RCC cells. Activation of the GCN2-ATF4 stress response pathway was identified as the mechanistic link between sunitinib treatment and elevated serine production. The increased serine biosynthesis supported nucleotide synthesis and sustained cell proliferation, migration, and invasion following sunitinib treatment. Inhibiting key enzymes in the serine synthesis pathway, such as phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase and phosphoserine aminotransferase 1, enhanced the sensitivity of resistant cells to sunitinib. Beyond RCC, similar activation of serine synthesis following sunitinib treatment occurred in a variety of other cancer types, suggesting a shared adaptive response to sunitinib therapy. Together, this study identifies the de novo serine synthesis pathway as a potential target to overcome sunitinib resistance, offering insights into therapeutic strategies applicable across diverse cancer contexts. Significance: Sunitinib treatment induces metabolic reprogramming to provide essential metabolite building blocks for tumor survival, resistance, and progression by upregulating serine biosynthesis, which represents a targetable dependency to enhance therapeutic efficacy.

BCAA metabolism in cancer progression and therapy resistance: The balance between fuel and cell signaling

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), including leucine, isoleucine, and valine, play a crucial role in cellular metabolism and signaling. Recent studies have demonstrated that BCAA metabolic reprogramming is a key driver of tumor progression and treatment resistance in various cancers. BCAA metabolism supports cancer cell growth, survival, and proliferation by modulating pathways such as mTOR signaling and oxidative stress responses. By promoting immunosuppressive conditions and increasing the survival rate of cancer stem cells (CSCs), BCAAs contribute to immune evasion and resistance to therapies such as chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors. This article explores the different metabolic reprogramming patterns of BCAAs in various tumors and introduces BCAA-related metabolic targets for overcoming tumor resistance, offering new directions for precision cancer treatment, reducing resistance, and improving patient outcomes.

Epstein-Barr virus latent membrane protein 1 subverts IMPDH pathways to drive B-cell oncometabolism

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is associated with multiple types of cancers, many of which express the viral oncoprotein Latent Membrane Protein 1 (LMP1). LMP1 contributes to both epithelial and B-cell transformation. Although metabolism reprogramming is a cancer hallmark, much remains to be learned about how LMP1 alters lymphocyte oncometabolism. To gain insights into key B-cell metabolic pathways subverted by LMP1, we performed systematic metabolomic analyses on B cells with conditional LMP1 expression. This approach highlighted that LMP highly induces de novo purine biosynthesis, with xanthosine-5-P (XMP) as one of the most highly LMP1-upregulated metabolites. Consequently, IMPDH inhibition by mycophenolic acid (MPA) triggered death of LMP1-expressing EBV-transformed lymphoblastoid cell lines (LCL), a key model for EBV-driven immunoblastic lymphomas. Whereas MPA instead caused growth arrest of Burkitt lymphoma cells with the EBV latency I program, conditional LMP1 expression triggered their death, and this phenotype was rescuable by guanosine triphosphate (GTP) supplementation, implicating LMP1 as a key driver of B-cell GTP biosynthesis. Although both IMPDH isozymes are expressed in LCLs, only IMPDH2 was critical for LCL survival, whereas both contributed to proliferation of Burkitt cells with the EBV latency I program. Both LMP1 C-terminal cytoplasmic tail domains critical for primary human B-cell transformation were important for XMP production, and each contributed to LMP1-driven Burkitt cell sensitivity to MPA. Metabolomic analyses further highlighted roles of NF-kB, mitogen activated kinase and protein kinase C downstream of LMP1 in support of XMP abundance. Of these, only protein kinase C activity was important for supporting GTP levels in LMP1 expressing Burkitt cells. MPA also de-repressed EBV lytic antigens, including LMP1 itself in latency I Burkitt cells, highlighting crosstalk between the purine biosynthesis pathway and the EBV epigenome. These results suggest novel oncometabolism-based therapeutic approaches to LMP1-driven lymphomas.

The oncoprotein SET promotes serine-derived one-carbon metabolism by regulating SHMT2 enzymatic activity

Cancer cells frequently reprogram one-carbon metabolic pathways to fulfill their vigorous demands of biosynthesis and antioxidant defense for survival and proliferation. Dysfunction of oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes is critically involved in this process, but the precise mechanisms by which cancer cells actively trigger one-carbon metabolic alterations remain incompletely elucidated. Here, by using untargeted metabolomic analysis, we identify the oncoprotein SE translocation (SET) as a key regulator of one-carbon metabolism in cancer cells. SET physically interacts with mitochondrial SHMT2 and facilitates SHMT2 enzymatic activity. Loss of SET profoundly suppresses serine-derived one-carbon metabolic flux, whereas reexpression of ectopic SET leads to the opposite effect. Notably, although the presence of SHMT2 is critical for SET-mediated one-carbon metabolic alterations, the depletion of SHMT2 alone is insufficient to antagonize SET-induced tumor growth, probably due to functional compensation by its cytosolic isozyme SHMT1 upon SHMT2 knockdown. Instead, pharmacological targeting of cellular SHMT (including both SHMT1 and SHMT2) activity results in dramatic suppression of SET-induced tumor growth. Moreover, by using a Kras/Lkb1 mutation-driven lung tumor mouse model, we demonstrate that the loss of SET compromises both tumor formation and intratumoral SHMT2 enzymatic activity. Clinically, the overexpression of SET and SHMT2 is observed in lung tumors, both of which correlate with poor prognosis. Our study reveals a SET-SHMT2 axis in regulating serine-derived one-carbon metabolism and uncovers one-carbon metabolic reprogramming as a mechanism for SET-driven tumorigenesis.

Computational modeling of cancer cell metabolism along the catabolic-anabolic axes

Abnormal metabolism is a hallmark of cancer, this was initially recognized nearly a century ago through the observation of aerobic glycolysis in cancer cells. Mitochondrial respiration can also drive tumor progression and metastasis. However, it remains largely unclear the mechanisms by which cancer cells mix and match different metabolic modalities (oxidative/reductive) and leverage various metabolic ingredients (glucose, fatty acids, glutamine) to meet their bioenergetic and biosynthetic needs. Here, we formulate a phenotypic model for cancer metabolism by coupling master gene regulators (AMPK, HIF-1, MYC) with key metabolic substrates (glucose, fatty acids, and glutamine). The model predicts that cancer cells can acquire four metabolic phenotypes: a catabolic phenotype characterized by vigorous oxidative processes-O, an anabolic phenotype characterized by pronounced reductive activities-W, and two complementary hybrid metabolic states-one exhibiting both high catabolic and high anabolic activity-W/O, and the other relying mainly on glutamine oxidation-Q. Using this framework, we quantified gene and metabolic pathway activity by developing scoring metrics based on gene expression. We validated the model-predicted gene-metabolic pathway association and the characterization of the four metabolic phenotypes by analyzing RNA-seq data of tumor samples from TCGA. Strikingly, carcinoma samples exhibiting hybrid metabolic phenotypes are often associated with the worst survival outcomes relative to other metabolic phenotypes. Our mathematical model and scoring metrics serve as a platform to quantify cancer metabolism and study how cancer cells adapt their metabolism upon perturbations, which ultimately could facilitate an effective treatment targeting cancer metabolic plasticity.

Research trends on lactate in cancer: a bibliometric analysis and comprehensive review (2015-2024)

Objective

A bibliometric approach was employed to systematically analyze the trends and potential future developments in lactic acid-related cancer research over the past 10 years.

Method

We conducted a bibliometric analysis of literature on lactic acid in cancer research from 2015 to 2024, using data collected from the Web of Science database. A bibliometric analysis was conducted to identify general research directions and trends in current publications, as well as to determine the most prolific and influential authors, institutions, countries, and keywords in lactate and cancer research. The data were collected and analyzed using VOSviewer (Leiden University, Leiden, Netherlands), Microsoft Excel (Microsoft, Redmond, Washington, USA), CiteSpace, and Biblioshiny, with a focus on analysis and visualization.

Results

A total of 5,999 publications were analyzed, focusing on various aspects of the relevant literature, including year of publication, country, institution, author, journal, category, keywords, and research frontiers. The analysis of these publications reveals a general upward trend in publication volume from 2015 to 2024, with China and University of California System emerging as the most prolific country and institution, respectively. SCIENTIFIC REPORTS is the most frequently published journal, while Oncotarget is the most cited journal in the field. Zhang Y. was the most prolific author, publishing 100 documents over 10 years, with the highest citation count and an H-index of 28.Keyword analysis revealed five key themes in lactate-cancer research (2013-2023): Metabolic-epigenetic crosstalk, Tumor immunosuppressive microenvironment, Innovative therapies/drug delivery, Lactate-mediated signaling, Metabolic-targeted treatment strategies. Current research emphasizes the application of lactic acid metabolism in metabolic intervention, immune microenvironment regulation, combination of new therapeutic techniques and applications in specific cancer types.

Conclusion

Research on lactic acid in cancer is growing rapidly, with China at the forefront of this field. Research into lactic acid's role in immune cell regulation, metabolism, and signaling pathways, combined with multi-modal imaging, big data analytics, and innovative drug delivery, is set to become a key trend in future studies, which promises new directions for identifying therapeutic targets, biomarkers, and developing advanced treatments.

Metabolic reprogramming in cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity: Mechanisms and intervention strategies

Cancer therapy-related cardiovascular toxicity (CTR-CVT) poses a major challenge in managing cancer patients, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality among survivors. CTR-CVT includes various cardiovascular issues, such as cardiomyopathy, myocardial ischemia, arrhythmias, and vascular dysfunction, which significantly impact patient prognosis and quality of life. Metabolic reprogramming, characterized by disruptions in glucose, lipid, and amino acid metabolism, represents a shared pathophysiological feature of cancer and cardiovascular diseases; however, the precise mechanisms underlying CTR-CVT remain inadequately understood. In recent years, strategies targeting metabolic pathways have shown promise in reducing cardiovascular risks while optimizing cancer treatment efficacy. This review systematically summarizes metabolic reprogramming characteristics in both cancer and cardiovascular diseases, analyzes how anticancer therapies induce cardiovascular toxicity through metabolic alterations, and explores emerging therapeutic strategies targeting metabolic dysregulation. By integrating current research advancements, this review aims to enhance the understanding of CTR-CVT and provide groundwork for the development of safer and more effective cancer approaches.

Metabolic characteristics of benign and malignant pulmonary nodules and establishment of invasive lung adenocarcinoma model by high-resolution mass spectrometry

BACKGROUND

Increasing pulmonary nodule presentations in lung adenocarcinoma patients reveal diagnostic limitations of CT-based invasiveness assessment. The critical unmet need lies in developing non-invasive biomarkers differentiating invasive adenocarcinoma from premalignant lesions and benign nodules, while characterizing metabolic trajectory from health to metastatic disease.

METHODS

Untargeted metabolomics analyzed plasma samples from 102 subjects stratified into four cohorts: confirmed adenocarcinoma (n = 35), benign nodules (n = 22), precursor lesions (n = 24), and healthy controls (n = 21). Multivariate analysis identified discriminative metabolites for constructing an infiltration prediction model.

RESULTS

Three diagnostic groups exhibited distinct metabolic profiles. Hexaethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and Met-Thr showed stage-dependent concentration gradients. Progressive malignancy correlated with elevated levels of 41 metabolites. An eight-metabolite panel achieved AUC 0.933 (0.873-0.994) in distinguishing precursors from early malignancies, sustained through internal validation (AUC 0.934, 0.905-0.966).

CONCLUSIONS

Met-Thr depletion inversely correlates with malignancy progression, while eight-metabolite signatures demonstrate diagnostic potential for preoperative infiltration assessment in nodular adenocarcinoma.

Integrated Analysis of Disulfidptosis-Related Genes Identifies CD2AP as a Potential Therapeutic Target for Hepatocellular Carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a deadly cancer with limited treatment options for patients at advanced stages. It is urgent to develop reliable prognostic risk models and identify more biomarkers to improve the clinical outcomes of patients with HCC. Disulfidptosis is a newly discovered form of regulated cell death (RCD), and research on the comprehensive roles of disulfidptosis-related genes (DRGs) in HCC prognosis and development remains limited. In this paper, we systematically analyzed the expression levels and prognostic profiles of 26 DRGs in HCC samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort and developed a prognostic risk model using seven hub DRGs. The independent prognostic value of the risk model was further validated in the external cohort. The overall survival of patients with HCC in the low-risk group was significantly longer than that of those in the high-risk group. Subsequently, the protein level of CD2-associated protein (CD2AP) was found to be highly expressed in HCC clinical tissues and associated with the severity of HCC. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the down-regulation of CD2AP attenuated the proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) abilities of HCC cells. Taken together, our study revealed that the DRG CD2AP may serve as a potential biomarker for HCC and offer support for prognosis prediction of patients with HCC.

Tumor microenvironment-associated oxidative stress impairs SIRT1 secretion to suppress anti-tumor immune response

Sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) is a classical histone deacetylase well known for its roles in intracellular pathways such as energy metabolism, DNA damage response, and genome stability maintenance. We report that SIRT1 can be secreted into the tumor microenvironment (TME) through an unconventional protein secretion pathway, effectively inhibiting tumor growth. However, under the stressful conditions of the TME, SIRT1 undergoes increased methylation, which impedes its secretion. Consequently, tumor-infiltrating M2 macrophages are unable to acquire sufficient SIRT1 from the TME, resulting in a significant decrease in SIRT1 levels within these cells. This SIRT1 decline leads to elevated expression of programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD-L1) on M2 macrophages, which in turn contributes to CD8+ T cell exhaustion through the programmed cell death protein 1/PD-L1 interaction pathway. These findings unveil the multifaceted roles and regulatory mechanisms of SIRT1 within the complex TME, providing deeper insights that significantly enhance our understanding of tumor immune-evasion strategies.

EGFR controls transcriptional and metabolic rewiring in KRASG12D colorectal cancer

Inhibition of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) shows clinical benefit in metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC) patients, but KRAS-mutations are known to confer resistance. However, recent reports highlight EGFR as a crucial target to be co-inhibited with RAS inhibitors for effective treatment of KRAS mutant CRC. Here, we investigated the tumor cell-intrinsic contribution of EGFR in KRASG12D tumors by establishing murine CRC organoids with key CRC mutations (KRAS, APC, TP53) and inducible EGFR deletion. Metabolomic, transcriptomic, and scRNA-analyses revealed that EGFR deletion in KRAS-mutant organoids reduced their phenotypic heterogeneity and activated a distinct cancer-stem-cell/WNT signature associated with reduced cell size and downregulation of major signaling cascades like MAPK, PI3K, and ErbB. This was accompanied by metabolic rewiring with a decrease in glycolytic routing and increased anaplerotic glutaminolysis. Mechanistically, following EGFR loss, Smoc2 was identified as a key upregulated target mediating these phenotypes that could be rescued upon additional Smoc2 deletion. Validation in patient-datasets revealed that the identified signature is associated with better overall survival of RAS mutant CRC patients possibly allowing to predict therapy responses in patients.

Glycolytic enzyme PFKFB4 governs lipolysis by promoting de novo lipogenesis to drive the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is among the most aggressive malignancies, marked by high recurrence rates and limited treatment efficacy, especially in HBV-associated HCC (HBV-HCC). This subtype exhibits pronounced metabolic reprogramming, with lipid synthesis playing a pivotal role in driving tumor aggressiveness and therapeutic resistance. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this metabolic shift remain unclear. In our study, analysis of the LIHC-TCGA database and comparisons between HCC tissues and adjacent peri-tumoral tissues revealed that 6-Phosphofructo-2-Kinase/Fructose-2,6-Biphosphatase 4 (PFKFB4) is significantly upregulated in HBV-HCC. Moreover, elevated PFKFB4 expression correlates with poorer prognosis and unfavorable overall survival among HBV-HCC patients. Functional assays demonstrated that PFKFB4 promotes HCC proliferation by enhancing glycolysis and de novo lipid synthesis. Notably, PFKFB4 not only increases glycolytic flux but also upregulates sterol regulatory element-binding protein 1 (SREBP1) expression via its enzymatic activity. Mechanistically, PFKFB4 suppresses phosphorylated AMP-activated protein kinase (p-AMPK) through enhanced aerobic glycolysis, which in turn stimulates the level of SREBP1. Collectively, these findings position PFKFB4 as a critical mediator of metabolic reprogramming in HBV-HCC and a promising therapeutic target.

m6A/IGF2BP3-driven serine biosynthesis fuels AML stemness and metabolic vulnerability

Metabolic reprogramming of amino acids represents a vulnerability in cancer cells, yet the mechanisms underlying serine metabolism in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and leukemia stem/initiating cells (LSCs/LICs) remain unclear. Here, we identify RNA N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification as a key regulator of serine biosynthesis in AML. Using a CRISPR/Cas9 screen, we find that depletion of m6A regulators IGF2BP3 or METTL14 sensitizes AML cells to serine and glycine (SG) deprivation. IGF2BP3 recognizies m6A on mRNAs of key serine synthesis pathway (SSP) genes (e.g., ATF4, PHGDH, PSAT1), stabilizing these transcripts and sustaining serine production to meet the high metabolic demand of AML cells and LSCs/LICs. IGF2BP3 silencing combined with dietary SG restriction potently inhibits AML in vitro and in vivo, while its deletion spares normal hematopoiesis. Our findings reveal the critical role of m6A modification in the serine metabolic vulnerability of AML and highlight the IGF2BP3/m6A/SSP axis as a promising therapeutic target.

Lactylation as a metabolic epigenetic modification: Mechanistic insights and regulatory pathways from cells to organs and diseases

In recent years, lactylation, a novel post-translational modification, has demonstrated a unique role in bridging cellular metabolism and epigenetic regulation. This modification exerts a dual-edged effect in both cancer and non-cancer diseases by dynamically integrating the supply of metabolic substrates and the activity of modifying enzymes: on one hand, it promotes tissue homeostasis and repair through the activation of repair genes; on the other, it exacerbates pathological progression by driving malignant phenotypes. In the field of oncology, lactylation regulates key processes such as metabolic reprogramming, immune evasion, and therapeutic resistance, thereby shaping the heterogeneity of the tumor microenvironment. In non-cancerous diseases, including neurodegeneration and cardiovascular disorders, its aberrant activation can lead to mitochondrial dysfunction, fibrosis, and chronic inflammation. Existing studies have revealed a dynamic regulatory network formed by the cooperation of modifying and demodifying enzymes, and have identified mechanisms such as subcellular localization and RNA metabolism intervention that influence disease progression. Nevertheless, several challenges remain in the field. This article comprehensively summarizes the disease-specific regulatory mechanisms of lactylation, with the aim of providing a theoretical foundation for its targeted therapeutic application.

Metabolomics as a tool for understanding and treating triple-negative breast cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive and heterogeneous variant of breast cancer distinguished by a lack of targeted therapies, posing significant challenges in diagnosis and treatment. Metabolomics, the comprehensive study of small compounds in biological systems, has been identified as an instrument for revealing the metabolic underpinnings of TNBC. This review highlights recent advancements in metabolomic approaches, such as mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance, which have identified metabolic vulnerabilities, resistance mechanisms, and potential therapeutic targets. Key findings include alterations in fatty acid, amino acid, and glutathione metabolism, along with hypoxia-driven metabolic reprogramming that contributes to disease progression. The combination of metabolomics with multi-omics techniques, supported by advanced computational methods such as machine learning, offers a pathway to overcome challenges in data standardization and biological complexity. Emerging strategies, including the use of artificial intelligence and multidimensional omics approaches, are paving the way for personalized medicine by enabling the discovery of novel biomarkers and targeted therapies. Despite these advances, significant hurdles remain, including the need for robust data standardization, validation of findings in diverse patient cohorts, and seamless integration with clinical workflows. By addressing these challenges, metabolomics has the potential to revolutionize TNBC management, offering tools for early detection, precision therapy, and improved patient outcomes. This review underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration to translate metabolomic insights into actionable clinical applications.

Targeting ncRNAs to overcome metabolic reprogramming‑mediated drug resistance in cancer (Review)

The emergence of resistance to antitumor drugs in cancer cells presents a notable obstacle in cancer therapy. Metabolic reprogramming is characterized by enhanced glycolysis, disrupted lipid metabolism, glutamine dependence and mitochondrial dysfunction. In addition to promoting tumor growth and metastasis, metabolic reprogramming mediates drug resistance through diverse molecular mechanisms, offering novel opportunities for therapeutic intervention. Non‑coding RNAs (ncRNAs), a diverse class of RNA molecules that lack protein‑coding function, represent a notable fraction of the human genome. Due to their distinct expression profiles and multifaceted roles in various cancers, ncRNAs have relevance in cancer pathophysiology. ncRNAs orchestrate metabolic abnormalities associated with drug resistance in cancer cells. The present review provides a comprehensive analysis of the mechanisms by which metabolic reprogramming drives drug resistance, with an emphasis on the regulatory roles of ncRNAs in glycolysis, lipid metabolism, mitochondrial dysfunction and glutamine metabolism. Furthermore, the present review aimed to discuss the potential of ncRNAs as biomarkers for predicting chemotherapy responses, as well as emerging strategies to target ncRNAs that modulate metabolism, particularly in the context of combination therapy with anti‑cancer drugs.

An ISR-independent role of GCN2 prevents excessive ribosome biogenesis and mRNA translation

The integrated stress response (ISR) is a corrective physiological programme to restore cellular homeostasis that is based on the attenuation of global protein synthesis and a resource-enhancing transcriptional programme. GCN2 is the oldest of four kinases that are activated by diverse cellular stresses to trigger the ISR and acts as the primary responder to amino acid shortage and ribosome collisions. Here, using a broad multi-omics approach, we uncover an ISR-independent role of GCN2. GCN2 inhibition or depletion in the absence of discernible stress causes excessive protein synthesis and ribosome biogenesis, perturbs the cellular translatome, and results in a dynamic and broad loss of metabolic homeostasis. Cancer cells that rely on GCN2 to keep protein synthesis in check under conditions of full nutrient availability depend on GCN2 for survival and unrestricted tumour growth. Our observations describe an ISR-independent role of GCN2 in regulating the cellular proteome and translatome and suggest new avenues for cancer therapies based on unleashing excessive mRNA translation.

Tumour interstitial fluid-enriched phosphoethanolamine suppresses T cell function

Nutrient stress represents an important barrier for anti-tumour immunity, and tumour interstitial fluid often contains metabolites that hinder immune function. However, it is difficult to isolate the effects of tumour nutrient stress from other suppressive factors. Thus, we used a chemically defined cell culture medium based on the metabolomic profile of tumour interstitial fluid: tumour interstitial fluid medium (TIFM). Culture of CD8+ T cells in TIFM limited cell expansion and impaired CD8+ T cell effector functions upon restimulation, suggesting that tumour nutrient stress alone is sufficient to drive T cell dysfunction. We identified phosphoethanolamine (pEtn), a phospholipid intermediate, as a driver of T cell dysfunction. pEtn dampened T cell receptor signalling by depleting T cells of diacylglycerol required for T cell receptor signal transduction. The reduction of pEtn accumulation in tumours improved intratumoural T cell function and tumour control, suggesting that pEtn accumulation plays a dominant role in immunosuppression in the tumour microenvironment.

PLOD1 promotes the malignancy of hepatocellular carcinoma by facilitating the NF-κB/IL-6/STAT3-dependent TCA cycle

Background & Aims

Procollagen lysyl hydroxylase 1 (PLOD1) is crucial in regulating collagen synthesis and cross-linking. However, its roles and underlying mechanisms in the progression of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remain unclear. Herein, we aimed to investigate the underlying biological functions and mechanisms of PLOD1 in HCC.

Methods

The expression levels of PLOD1 in HCC were measured by qPCR, Western blot, and immunohistochemistry. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, and stemness were examined by CCK8, flow cytometry, sphere formation, and aldehyde dehydrogenase activity assays. The subcutaneous tumorigenicity model, orthotopic tumorigenicity model, and hepatotoxin-induced HCC model were used for in vivo experiments. RNA-sequence and untargeted metabolomics analysis were performed to identify underlying mechanisms.

Results

PLOD1 is found to be highly expressed in both human (p <0.0001) and mouse HCC (p <0.01) and is associated with a poor prognosis (p = 0.047). In vitro and in vivo experiments reveal that overexpression of PLOD1 promotes the proliferation and stemness of HCC cells. Meanwhile, the depletion of PLOD1 attenuates the occurrence and growth of HCC, leading to cell cycle arrest (p <0.01) and apoptosis (p <0.001) in HCC. Mechanistically, PLOD1 positively regulates the NF-κB/IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway and accelerates TCA cycle metabolic reprogramming. Blocking the NF-κB/IL-6/STAT3 signaling pathway and TCA cycle can effectively mitigate PLOD1-induced proliferation and stemness of HCC cells.

Conclusions

Our study uncovers the PLOD1/NF-κB/IL-6/STAT3 axis as a therapeutic target for inhibiting the progression and stemness of HCC.

Impact and implications

The roles and underlying mechanisms of PLOD1 in the progression of HCC remain unclear. In this study, we report that PLOD1 is highly expressed in patients with HCC and promotes the proliferation and stemness of HCC cells by activating the NF-κB/IL-6/STAT3-dependent TCA cycle. Knocking down hepatic PLOD1 using adeno-associated virus results in reduced progression of HCC in mice, suggesting that PLOD1 may serve as a potential therapeutic target for HCC.

LDHAα, a lactate dehydrogenase A isoform, promotes glycolysis and tumor progression

Lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) is upregulated in multiple cancer types and contributes to the Warburg effect. Several studies have found that many tumor-related genes have subtypes and play important roles in promoting cancer development. Here, we identified a novel LDHA transcript, which produced a new protein 3 kDa larger than LDHA, which we named LDHAα. We found that multiple cancer cell lines express LDHAα, and ectopic expression of LDHAα led to a higher proliferation and migration rate in vitro. Ectopic expression of LDHAα could also promote tumor cell growth in vivo. Conversely, deletion of LDHAα by CRISPR-sgRNA significantly inhibited the growth of tumor cells. LDHAα was found to be mainly located in the cytoplasm, and overexpression or deletion of LDHAα could significantly affect the glucose uptake and lactate production of tumor cells. Further investigation showed that c-MYC and FOXM1 could markedly modulate the expression of both LDHA and LDHAα, especially c-MYC. We found that a small molecular compound targeting LDHA could also inhibit the enzyme activity of LDHAα. LDHAα, LDHA and c-MYC expression was significantly higher in human acute lymphocytic leukemia and colorectal cancer tissue specimens compared to normal controls. In conclusion, our study identified LDHAα as a subtype of LDHA and highlighted its critical role in tumor metabolism, providing a potential new therapeutic target for tumor diagnosis and treatment.

Berberrubine as a novel TrxR inhibitor enhances cisplatin sensitivity in the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer

Thioredoxin reductase (TrxR, TXNRD) is an essential enzyme implicated in the processes of cancer development and progression, positioning it as a promising target for cancer therapeutics. In this study, we employed target-based structural screening to identify berberrubine (BRB), a natural product characterized by an unprecedented isoquinoline scaffold that differs from known TrxR inhibitors. Our findings demonstrate that BRB serves as an effective inhibitor of TrxR, both in the context of the purified enzyme and within cancer cells. Since TrxR is highly expressed in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and is linked to patient prognosis and drug resistance, our results demonstrate, for the first time, that BRB can enhance the sensitivity of cisplatin to impede the proliferation of A549 cells, which was further confirmed in a xenograft model. The primary reason for cisplatin resistance in NSCLC is the DNA repair mechanism of apoptotic tumor cells. Our subsequent mechanistic investigation discovered that BRB selectively inhibits TrxR and impairs the biologically functional thioredoxin, which ultimately inhibits DNA synthesis and repair in cancer cells. Inhibition of TrxR by BRB led to a significant ROS accumulation in A549 cells, which contributed to oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis when used in combination with cisplatin. Our results conclude that BRB is a novel chemical entity of TrxR inhibitor that can increase the effectiveness of cisplatin in slowing down the growth of NSCLC both in vitro and in vivo. This provides a new perspective on the potential application of the combination of the two in the treatment of NSCLC.

MTHFD2 promotes esophageal squamous cell carcinoma progression via m6A modification‑mediated upregulation and modulation of the PEBP1‑RAF1 interaction

One‑carbon metabolism plays an important role in cancer progression. Methylenetetrahydrofolate dehydrogenase 2 (MTHFD2), a mitochondrial enzyme in one‑carbon metabolism, is dysregulated in several cancer types. However, the precise role and mechanisms of MTHFD2 in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remain unclear. The present study unravels the multifaceted mechanisms by which MTHFD2 contributes to ESCC pathogenesis. Bioinformatics analyses revealed significant upregulation of MTHFD2 in ESCC tumor tissues, which was associated with advanced disease stage and poor patient prognosis. Validating these findings in clinical samples, MTHFD2 overexpression was confirmed through immunohistochemistry, Reverse transcription‑quantitative PCR and western blotting. Knockdown of MTHFD2 inhibited ESCC cell viability, colony formation, invasion, and tumor growth in vivo, indicating its oncogenic potential. Mechanistically, the present study elucidated a novel regulatory axis involving N6‑methyladenosine modification and MTHFD2 mRNA stability. Specifically, methyltransferase‑like 3 (METTL3) and insulin‑like growth factor 2 mRNA binding protein 2 (IGF2BP2) were identified as key mediators of m6A‑dependent stabilization of MTHFD2 mRNA, contributing to its elevated expression in ESCC. Furthermore, MTHFD2 was found to activate PI3K/AKT and ERK signaling pathways by modulating interaction between phosphatidylethanolamine‑binding protein 1 (PEBP1) and raf‑1 proto‑oncogene (RAF1). This modulation was achieved through direct binding of MTHFD2 to PEBP1, disrupting the inhibitory effect of PEBP1 on RAF1 and promoting downstream pathway activation. The oncogenic functions of MTHFD2 were attenuated upon PEBP1 knockdown, underscoring the role of the MTHFD2‑PEBP1 axis in ESCC progression. In summary, the present study uncovers a novel regulatory mechanism involving m6A modification and the MTHFD2‑PEBP1 axis, unveiling potential therapeutic avenues for targeting MTHFD2 in ESCC.

Fullerenols hijack lysosomes to disrupt inter-organellar crosstalk and block autophagy pre-activated by mTOR inhibitors for cancer cell PANoptosis

Subcellular inter-organellar crosstalk among lysosome, endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and mitochondrion is crucial for cancer cell survival and is a promising target in cancer treatment; however, efficiently disrupting these interactive networks is challenging. Herein, a communication interception strategy is presented, which specifically disrupts inter-organellar crosstalk by lysosomal contents leakage along with their trajectory and pre-activates autophagic flux to augment the lysosome-associated autophagy blocking for preventing the self-repair of this subcellular disorder. Briefly, fullerenols containing multiple hydroxyl groups (MF) tear the lysosomal phospholipid membrane through direct interaction, which causes lysosomal contents (calcium ions and cathepsins) to leak into the cytoplasm, subsequently leading to endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dysfunction with redox imbalance and metabolic reprogramming. mTOR inhibitors activate and amplify autophagy, then impaired lysosomes prevent their fusion with autophagosome, and thus autophagy is paralyzed along with autolysosome accumulation. Consequently, the cellular homeostasis is compromised by destroyed inter-organellar networks without self-repair by autophagy, thereby triggering PANoptotic processes and leading to a remarkable anti-tumor therapeutic efficacy in vitro and in vivo. This strategy demonstrates the selective cytotoxicity of non-toxic nanomaterials that interfere with subcellular inter-organellar crosstalk, offering a novel method for designing tumor therapies.

Alisertib impairs the stemness of hepatocellular carcinoma by inhibiting purine synthesis

Hepatocellular carcinoma tumor-repopulating cells (HCC-TRCs) drive disease progression, yet their purine metabolism mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study revealed that the stemness index, strongly linked to poor HCC prognosis, exhibited a robust positive correlation with purine metabolism through single-sample gene set enrichment analysis. Integrated drug screening across CTRP, GDSC, and PRISM databases identified alisertib, an aurora kinase A (AURKA) inhibitor, as a potent agent targeting stemness. Using fibrin gel-based 3D-cultured HCC-TRCs, mechanistic studies demonstrated that alisertib suppresses xanthine and hypoxanthine production by inhibiting the AURKA-AKT signaling axis. This disruption markedly impaired tumor spheroid formation, migration, and invasion in vitro, while significantly suppressed tumor growth in vivo, which could be rescued by the AKT agonist SC79. Our findings revealed a novel therapeutic strategy targeting purine metabolism through AURKA-AKT axis inhibition, effectively eliminating HCC-TRCs.

DNA Nanostructures for Rational Regulation of Cellular Organelles

DNA nanotechnology has revolutionized materials science and biomedicine by enabling precise manipulation of matter at the nanoscale. DNA nanostructures (DNs) in particular represent a promising frontier for targeted therapeutics. Engineered DNs offer unprecedented molecular programmability, biocompatibility, and structural versatility, making them ideal candidates for advanced drug delivery, organelle regulation, and cellular function modulation. This Perspective explores the emerging role of DNs in modulating cellular behavior through organelle-targeted interventions. We highlight current advances in nuclear, mitochondrial, and lysosomal targeting, showcasing applications ranging from gene delivery to cancer therapeutics. For instance, DNs have enabled precision mitochondrial disruption in cancer cells, lysosomal pH modulation to enhance gene silencing, and nuclear delivery of gene-editing templates. While DNs hold immense promise for advancing nanomedicine, outstanding challenges include optimizing biological interactions and addressing safety concerns. This Perspective highlights the current potential of DNs for rational control of targeted organelles, which could lead to novel therapeutic strategies and advancement of precision nanomedicines in the future.

SUMOylated hnRNPM suppresses PFKFB3 phosphorylation to regulate glycolysis and tumorigenesis

Heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein M (hnRNPM), a splicing regulatory factor with a majority of studies focused on its RNA-binding properties and effects on splicing outcome, is implicated in the progression of various kinds of human cancers, but its mechanisms remain largely enigmatic. Applying the global SUMOylated proteomic screening in colorectal cancer cells, herein we find that hnRNPM is SUMOylated at lysine 17 and Sentrin-specific protease 1 (SENP1) is essential for its de-SUMOylation. Although hnRNPM SUMOylation does not affect its known pre-mRNA splicing-related effects, more intriguingly, it remarkably influences lactate production. Mechanistically, SUMOylated hnRNPM interacts with 6-phosphofructo-2-kinase/fructose-2,6-biphosphatase 3 (PFKFB3) to affect its localization and inhibit its phosphorylation, thus suppressing glycolysis. Accordingly, SUMO-deficient hnRNPM promotes colorectal cancer cell proliferation and tumorigenesis in mice. Also, a negative correlation between hnRNPM SUMOylation and SENP1 expression or phosphorylated PFKFB3 levels can be found in CRC patient samples. These findings not only enhance our understanding of the multifaceted roles of hnRNPM in cancer biology but also open new avenues for the development of targeted therapies aimed at modulating hnRNPM SUMOylation.

Serine metabolism in tumor progression and immunotherapy

Serine plays a vital role in various metabolic processes including the synthesis of proteins and other amino acids, which are essential for the cell proliferation and growth. Cancer cells either absorb exogenous serine or produce it through the serine synthesis pathway, enabling the generation of intracellular glycine and one-carbon units, which are crucial for nucleotide biosynthesis. This metabolic process, referred to as serine-glycine-one-carbon (SGOC) metabolism, is essential for tumorigenesis and exhibits considerable complexity and clinical significance. Enzymes involved in the SGOC pathway are linked to tumor growth, metastasis, and resistance to therapies. The SGOC pathway is a vital metabolic network that facilitates cell survival and proliferation, especially in aggressive cancers. Understanding how this network is regulated is crucial for tackling tumor heterogeneity and recurrence. This review emphasizes recent advancements in understanding the roles and effects of the SGOC metabolic pathway in the context of cancer progression. Additionally, it outlines the complex influences of the SGOC metabolic pathway on the tumor microenvironment (TME), offering potential strategies to enhance cancer immunotherapy.

The metabolic underpinnings of sebaceous lipogenesis

Sebaceous glands synthesize and secrete sebum, a mélange of lipids and other cellular products that safeguards the mammalian integument. Differentiating sebocytes delaminate from the basal membrane and dislodge towards the gland's middle, where they eventually undergo a poorly understood death mode in which the whole cell becomes a secretion product (holocrine secretion). Supported by recent transcriptomics data, this review examines the idea that peripheral sebocytes have a remarkable ability to draw nutrients from the blood and become committed to unrestrainedly invest all available resources into synthetic processes for accomplishing sebum synthesis, thereby exploiting core metabolic fluxes as glycogen turnover, glutamine-directed anaplerosis, the pentose phosphate pathway and de novo lipogenesis. Finally, we propose that metabolic-driven processes are an important mechanistic component of holocrine secretion. A deeper understanding of these metabolic adaptations could indicate novel strategies for modulating sebum synthesis, a key pathogenic factor in acne and other skin diseases.