Metabolic Reprogramming in Obese Cancer Patients: Natural Product Interventions Targeting AMPK/mTOR Pathways

Obesity-induced metabolic reprogramming fosters a tumor-promoting environment by altering key signaling pathways involved in energy homeostasis, including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). These pathways are intricately involved in cellular energy balance, proliferation, autophagy, and survival, making them crucial targets in the treatment of obesity-associated cancers. Dysregulation of AMPK/mTOR signaling in obese individuals facilitates oncogenic metabolic adaptation, thereby increasing cancer risk, progression, and resistance to therapy. Natural products, including polyphenols, alkaloids, terpenoids, and flavonoids, have emerged as potent modulators of AMPK/mTOR signaling, offering a promising chemopreventive and therapeutic approach. This review explores the underlying mechanisms of metabolic reprogramming in obese cancer patients, emphasizing the role of the AMPK/mTOR axis. It also highlights recent findings on natural compounds that modulate these pathways to suppress tumor growth, restore metabolic balance, and enhance sensitivity to anticancer therapies. Understanding the molecular interplay between obesity, metabolic signaling, and natural product interventions may lead to more personalized and effective cancer treatments.