Abstract
Fatty acids have important energetic, structural and functional functions. Due to their composition in the biomembrane, they influence its fluidity and thereby its functions, by binding to some proteins they modulate their action, participate in cell signaling and are also precursors of a wide spectrum of biologically active molecules.
It is therefore not surprising that fatty acids play an important role in tumorigenesis. Tumor cells are characterized by increased uptake of fatty acids but also increased de novo lipogenesis.
In tumor cells, there is an increased expression of proteins and enzymes involved in FA metabolism. Increased activity of these enzymes is associated with a worse prognosis of cancer diseases, and their inhibition can be the goal of therapy.
Dysregulation of fatty acid metabolism characterizes not only carcinogenesis and tumor growth, but also malnutrition, which usually accompanies oncological diseases. The risk of developing cancer is significantly influenced by the quantity and quality of fat consumed in food, and the influence of the composition of fatty acids in tissues on the development and progression of individual tumors is intensively studied.
The knowledge gained is used for the development of new anticancer drugs. Research in changes in lipid metabolism in cancer can contribute to the discovery of new biomarkers for early diagnosis and possibly suitable therapeutic targets.