Emerging Roles for Branched-Chain Amino Acid Metabolism in Cancer

Cancer Cell. 2020 Feb 10;37(2):147-156. doi: 10.1016/j.ccell.2019.12.011.

Abstract

Metabolic pathways must be adapted to support cell processes required for transformation and cancer progression. Amino acid metabolism is deregulated in many cancers, with changes in branched-chain amino acid metabolism specifically affecting cancer cell state as well as systemic metabolism in individuals with malignancy. This review highlights key concepts surrounding the current understanding of branched-chain amino acid metabolism and its role in cancer.

Keywords: branched-chain amino acids; cancer metabolism; epigenetics; metabolism.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Amino Acids, Branched-Chain / metabolism*
  • Epigenomics / methods
  • Humans
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins / metabolism*
  • Isoleucine / metabolism
  • Leucine / metabolism
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*

Substances

  • Amino Acids, Branched-Chain
  • Intracellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
  • Isoleucine
  • Leucine