Targeting fatty acid metabolism in cancer and endothelial cells

Abstract

Tumour angiogenesis has long been recognised as a target for anti-cancer therapy. The current approach of inhibiting the VEGF pathway has shown benefit in the clinic, though less than anticipated. We recently documented that glycolytic metabolism in endothelial cells (ECs) fuels angiogenesis, rendering it a possible target for inhibiting vascular growth in pathological conditions. More recently, we reported that the oxidation of fatty acids (FA) is irreplaceable for EC proliferation by providing carbons for de novo nucleotide synthesis. Furthermore, ECs are rather unique in this respect, creating novel therapeutic opportunities. Here, we review and compare the current understanding of FA utilisation in ECs and tumour cells (TCs).

Keywords: Angiogenesis; CPT1A; Cancer cell metabolism; Endothelial cell metabolism; Fatty acid metabolism.