Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most common malignant tumor of the male urological system and poses a severe threat to the survival of middle‑aged and elderly males worldwide. The development and progression of PCa are affected by a variety of biological processes, including proliferation, apoptosis, migration, invasion and the maintenance of membrane homeostasis of PCa cells. The present review summarizes recent research advances in lipid (fatty acid, cholesterol and phospholipid) metabolic pathways in PCa. In the first section, the metabolism of fatty acids is highlighted, from formation to catabolism and associated proteins. Subsequently, the role of cholesterol in the pathogenesis and evolution of PCa is described in detail. Finally, the different types of phospholipids and their association with PCa progression is also discussed. In addition to the impact of key proteins of lipid metabolism on PCa growth, metastasis and drug resistance, the present review also summarizes the clinical value of fatty acids, cholesterol and phospholipids, as diagnostic and prognostic indicators and therapeutic targets in PCa.
Keywords: cholesterol; fatty acids; lipid metabolism; phospholipid; prostate cancer.