Research Advances in Lipid Metabolic Reprogramming Mechanisms of Colorectal Cancer Cells

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a highly aggressive form of cancer that poses a significant threat to public health worldwide. The progression of this disease is primarily driven by metabolic changes, especially the disruption of lipid metabolism. Cancerous CRC cells proliferate uncontrollably and invade surrounding tissues due to abnormal modifications in fatty acid synthesis, lipid uptake, storage, and β-oxidation. These metabolic shifts are influenced by key oncogenic signaling pathways, such as the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and the MYC transcriptional network, which also enhance interactions with the tumor microenvironment's stromal elements. Recent research suggests that targeting lipid metabolism through pharmacological means could offer substantial clinical benefits. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the molecular mechanisms involved in the reprogramming of lipid metabolism in CRC development and assesses its potential for innovative therapeutic approaches.