Combination therapy targeting cancer metabolism

Abstract

Cancer cells undergo significant metabolic adaptation. Cellular transformation enhances both glycolysis and mitochondrial respiration efficiency through the induction of HIF-1α and HIF-2α. In this process, energy production and synthesis of macromolecules are maximized with minimal ROS accumulation. Furthermore, a series of antioxidant enzymes are induced to mitigate the damaging effects of ROS. Examination of these metabolic changes provides rationale for a synergistic approach to combination anti-cancer therapy; targeted inhibition of HIF and inhibition of cellular defenses against oxidative stress.