Metabolic Pathways in Kidney Cancer: Current Therapies and Future Directions

Overview

Journal J Clin Oncol

Specialty Oncology

Date 2018 Oct 30

PMID 30372395

Citations 33

Authors

W Kimryn Rathmell

Jeffrey C Rathmell

W Marston Linehan

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has become known as a metabolic disease, owing to the diverse array of metabolic defects and perturbations that occur as a result of the unique genetics that can drive these tumors. Recent attention to this feature of RCCs has fueled interest in targeting metabolism as a therapeutic strategy.

Methods: We conducted a literature search to develop themes around discrete pathways or processes of cellular metabolism, provide a framework for understanding emerging therapeutic strategies, and consider future interventions.

Results: Defects occur in metabolic pathways ranging from glycolysis to mitochondrial function and affect not only the tumor cell functionality, but also the local environment. We identified opportunities for therapeutic intervention associated with each pathway.

Conclusion: The metabolism of RCC cells presents a special environment of tumor susceptibilities, with opportunities for novel imaging applications and treatment paradigms that are being tested in monotherapy or as adjuncts to targeted or immune-based strategies.

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