Traditionally cancer is thought to originate from random genetic mutations that differ on a case by case basis. This conventional view has shaped current cancer treatment protocols and has led to costly, resource intensive, personalized cancer therapies. However, cancer has a strong metabolic component and this is often overlooked.
Cancer cells DO NOT use oxygen to make energy
Cancer cells differ from normal cells in that they do not use oxygen to create energy or ATP. This distinction, known as the Warburg effect, is one of many metabolic properties unique to cancer cells. Because of this metabolic defect, cancer cells must use other pathways to create energy in order to survive. They use glucose, glutamine, lactate and other amino acids at a disproportional rate compared to normal cells to compensate for an energy crisis in the cell.
The majority of all cancers are diagnosed with a metabolic test -- a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan -- as most cancers share common metabolic features which are exploited in the diagnosis of cancer. However, very few metabolic therapies exist to treat cancer. At Tieös, we believe there is an opportunity to further exploit these metabolic properties which are unique, yet common, to all cancer cells to create new classes of therapeutics.
Cancer cells use different metabolic pathways for energy production
Cancer cells use different metabolic pathways for energy production -- and this can be targeted. These cancer specific targets are present in the vast majority of cancers, regardless of tissue origin. Tieös plans to exploit these unique behaviours, as it represents an untapped opportunity for cancer therapeutics.