Metabolic Reprogramming, Questioning, and Implications for Cancer

Simple Summary The right terminology to describe biological phenomena is important. An inapropriate use can create some bias in the understanding that are not without consequences. In this communication we focus on the use of the term reprogramming associated to cancer cell metabolism. The expression metabolic reprogramming has been encountered more and more in the literature since the mid-1990s. It seems to encompass several notions depending on the author, but the lack of a clear definition allows it to be used as a catch-all expression. Our first intention is to point out the inconsistencies in the use of the reprogramming terminology for cancer metabolism. The second is to address the over-focus of the role of mutations in metabolic adaptation. With the increased interest in metabolism and, more specifically, in the Warburg effect in cancer research, it seems appropriate to discuss this terminology and related concepts in detail.

Automated summary

Using the right terminology is crucial in accurately describing biological phenomena, as inappropriate use may lead to biases in understanding, which can have negative consequences. This article focuses on the term "reprogramming" associated with cancer cell metabolism, highlighting inconsistencies in its usage and criticizing the overemphasis on the role of mutations in metabolic adaptation. With the growing interest in metabolism and the Warburg effect in cancer research, it is important to discuss these terms and concepts in detail.