Mechanoresponsive metabolism in cancer cell migration and metastasis

Altered tissue mechanics and metabolism are defining characteristics of cancer that impact not only proliferation but also migration. While migrating through a mechanically and spatially heterogeneous microenvironment, changes in metabolism allow cells to dynamically tune energy generation and bioenergetics in response to fluctuating energy needs. Physical cues from the extracellular matrix influence mechanosignaling pathways, cell mechanics, and cytoskeletal architecture to alter presentation and function of metabolic enzymes. In cancer, altered mechanosensing and metabolic reprogramming supports metabolic plasticity and high energy production while cells migrate and metastasize. Here, we discuss the role of mechanoresponsive metabolism in regulating cell migration and supporting metastasis as well as the potential of therapeutically targeting cancer metabolism to block motility and potentially metastasis.

Automated summary

Altered tissue mechanics and metabolism are defining characteristics of cancer that impact both proliferation and migration. Changes in metabolism allow cells to dynamically adjust energy generation in response to fluctuating energy needs, while physical cues from the extracellular matrix influence mechanosignaling pathways affecting cell migration and metastasis. The role of mechanoresponsive metabolism in regulating cell migration and supporting metastasis is discussed, along with the potential of targeting cancer metabolism therapeutically to inhibit motility and potentially metastasis.