The role of GSK3 in metabolic pathway perturbations in cancer

Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Res. 2021 Jul;1868(8):119059. doi: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.119059. Epub 2021 May 12.

Abstract

Malignant transformation and tumor progression are accompanied by significant perturbations in metabolic programs. As such, cancer cells support high ATP turnover to construct the building blocks needed to fuel neoplastic growth. The coordination of metabolic networks in malignant cells is dependent on the collaboration with cellular signaling pathways. Glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) lies at the convergence of several signaling axes, including the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, AMPK, and Wnt pathways, which influence cancer initiation, progression and therapeutic responses. Accordingly, GSK3 modulates metabolic processes, including protein and lipid synthesis, glucose and mitochondrial metabolism, as well as autophagy. In this review, we highlight current knowledge of the role of GSK3 in metabolic perturbations in cancer.

Keywords: AMPK; Cancer; GSK3; Metabolism; mTOR.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3 / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Neoplasms / pathology

Substances

  • Glycogen Synthase Kinase 3

Grants and funding