How Does the Microenvironment Influence Cancer Metabolism?
The tumor microenvironment significantly influences cancer metabolism. Factors such as hypoxia, nutrient availability, and interactions with stromal cells can alter the metabolic pathways of cancer cells. For example, hypoxia induces the expression of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1-alpha (HIF-1α), which promotes glycolysis and angiogenesis, further supporting tumor growth and survival.