Oncometabolites are pathognomonic hallmarks in human cancers, including glioma, leukemia, neuroendocrine tumors, and renal cancer. Oncometabolites are aberrantly accumulated from disrupted Krebs cycle and affect the catalytic activity of α-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases. Oncometabolites indicate distinct cancer-related patterns ranging from oncogenesis and metabolism to therapeutic resistance. Here we discuss the current understanding of oncometabolites as well as the controversies and challenges associated with oncometabolite-driven cancers. New insights into the relationship between cancer and oncometabolites will elucidate novel therapeutic avenues for improved cancer treatment.
©2021 American Association for Cancer Research.