Cellular fatty acid metabolism and cancer

Cell Metab. 2013 Aug 6;18(2):153-61. doi: 10.1016/j.cmet.2013.05.017. Epub 2013 Jun 20.

Abstract

Cancer cells often have characteristic changes in metabolism. Cellular proliferation, a common feature of all cancers, requires fatty acids for synthesis of membranes and signaling molecules. Here, we provide a view of cancer cell metabolism from a lipid perspective, and we summarize evidence that limiting fatty acid availability can control cancer cell proliferation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Proliferation
  • Energy Metabolism
  • Fatty Acids / biosynthesis*
  • Fatty Acids / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Lipid Metabolism / genetics*
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*

Substances

  • Fatty Acids