Energy Metabolism as a Therapeutic Target in Cancer: The Role of Coenzyme Q10

Abstract

The generation of energy within cells is a fundamental process enabling cell survival, and as such it represents a potential target in cancer therapy. In this article, we therefore review the relative contributions of glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation/mitochondrial function to cancer cell energy generation, and we highlight their respective potential value as chemotherapeutic targets. This article is particularly focussed on the potential role of coenzyme Q10 in the prevention and treatment of cancer.

Keywords

• cancer
• glycolysis
• oxidative phosphorylation
• mitochondria
• coenzyme Q10