Cancer Metabolism Researchers work on understanding how alterations in metabolic pathways enable cancer cells to grow, survive, and spread. Researchers in this field investigate how tumors modify their use of nutrients, such as glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids, to support their rapid proliferation. These metabolic changes not only help cancer cells thrive in low-oxygen or nutrient-deprived environments but also contribute to resistance against traditional therapies like chemotherapy and radiation.
Through laboratory-based research, cancer metabolism experts identify the molecular pathways and mechanisms that tumors depend on for survival. By targeting these metabolic vulnerabilities, they aim to develop new therapeutic strategies to disrupt the energy supply of cancer cells. Cancer metabolism researchers are developing innovative treatments that aim to “starve” tumors by blocking their ability to use essential nutrients. They are also focused on identifying biomarkers that can detect cancer earlier and monitor the response to metabolic-targeted therapies. By understanding and targeting the unique metabolic signatures of cancer cells, these researchers hope to provide more effective, personalized treatment options. Their work is at the forefront of cancer research, offering new hope for therapies that are less toxic and more precisely targeted to cancer cells. Their work is at the forefront of cancer research, offering new hope for therapies that are less toxic and more precisely targeted to cancer cells.