The metabolism of cancer cells: the Warburg effect

Abstract

The sole dysregulation of the cell cycle’s molecular program does not explain the uncontrolled growth of cancer cells. Metabolism adaptation is also required. When differentiated (quiescent) cells depend on lactic fermentation in the absence of oxygen (and mitochondrial respiration when oxygen is present), cancer cells rely on lactic fermentation independently of oxygen availability. This metabolic adaptation is named as the Warburg effect. In this review, we will discuss the initial discovery of the Warburg effect and argue that it is not a simple adaptation to hypoxia. The Warburg effect emerges as a complex phenomenon and is now a hallmark of cancer due to its universality and specific molecular regulation. These recent discoveries open novel avenues for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.