Biotechnology Bulletin ›› 2015, Vol. 31 ›› Issue (6): 48-54.doi: 10.13560/j.cnki.biotech.bull.1985.2015.06.007

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Research Advances on Tumor Cell Metabolism Regulated by PKM2

Xu Kun, Wang Ziying   

  1. Anhui University,Hefei 230601
  • Received:2014-10-10 Online:2015-06-19 Published:2015-06-20

Abstract: Tumor cell metabolism is exemplified by high glucose consumption and lactate production. The M2 isoform of pyruvate kinase(PKM2)plays a vital role in this metabolic phenotype, experiments both in vitro and in vivo revealed that over-expression of PKM2 would increase the Warburg effect and promote the tumor growth. However, the mechanisms of how PKM2 regulates tumor cell metabolism are still not completely understood. Current researches have elucidated novel PKM2 regulatory mechanisms. In this review the current understanding is summarized and future directions in this field are explored, highlighting controversies regarding the activity and specificity of PKM2 in tumor. Finally, the potential therapeutic implications and strategies are discussed.

Key words: PKM2, tumor cell metabolism, Warburg effect, glycolysis