Researchers have identified a new metabolic pathway that helps cancer cells grow and spread. The study, published in Nature Communications, reveals how changes in cell metabolism can directly activate genes that drive tumor progression.
The team found that under stress, two mitochondrial enzymes, ACO2 and IDH2, move into the cell nucleus and produce acetyl CoA. This molecule changes histone proteins, loosening DNA and switching on genes such as MKI67, which promote cancer cell growth and division.
When researchers blocked this pathway, the DNA remained tightly packed, preventing many cancer-related genes from being activated. As a result, tumor growth was significantly reduced.
Led by Dr. Subhamoy Dasgupta, the study uncovers a previously unknown connection between energy production in mitochondria and gene regulation in the nucleus. The findings may help researchers develop new treatments for metastatic and treatment-resistant cancers.