NADPH also plays a role in the immune response against cancer. It is involved in the NADPH oxidase complex, which generates ROS used by immune cells to kill cancer cells. However, cancer cells can hijack NADPH to suppress immune responses and promote immune evasion. Enhancing the NADPH-dependent oxidative burst in immune cells or disrupting NADPH-mediated antioxidant defenses in cancer cells could improve the efficacy of cancer immunotherapies.
In conclusion, NADPH is a pivotal molecule in cancer metabolism and survival. Its involvement in biosynthesis, antioxidant defense, and immune response makes it a critical target for cancer therapy. Ongoing research aims to exploit NADPH metabolism to develop novel and effective cancer treatments, with the hope of improving outcomes for patients.
