How Do Cancer Cells Achieve Metabolic Flexibility?
Cancer cells employ various mechanisms to achieve metabolic flexibility. One primary method is the Warburg effect, where cancer cells preferentially utilize glycolysis for energy production even in the presence of oxygen. This allows for rapid ATP generation and the production of metabolic intermediates necessary for cell growth. Additionally, cancer cells can switch to oxidative phosphorylation or utilize alternative pathways like glutaminolysis and fatty acid oxidation when glucose is scarce.
