In cancer cells, the enzyme glutaminase (GLS) is often upregulated, which converts glutamine to glutamate, a substrate for the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle. This alteration ensures a continuous supply of intermediates for energy production and biosynthesis. Additionally, oncogenes such as MYC can drive the expression of genes involved in glutamine uptake and metabolism, further enhancing the cancer cell's dependency on glutamine.
