Several key metabolic pathways are altered in cancer cells:
Glycolysis: Even under normoxic conditions, cancer cells predominantly rely on glycolysis for ATP production. Glutaminolysis: Glutamine is utilized as a major carbon and nitrogen source, supporting nucleotide and amino acid synthesis. Pentose phosphate pathway: Provides ribose-5-phosphate for nucleotide synthesis and NADPH for redox balance. Lipid metabolism: Enhanced fatty acid synthesis is common, providing membrane components and signaling molecules.
