Exploring the mysteries of nature can lead to groundbreaking discoveries that have the potential to impact cells at a molecular level.

Human cells typically produce ATP, an essential energy source, by oxidizing glucose. In contrast, cancer cells rely on glycolysis to generate ATP, even in the presence of oxygen, converting glucose into pyruvic acid and lactic acid.

This unconventional method of ATP production, known as the Warburg effect, raises questions about why cancer cells opt for this energy pathway to support their growth and survival.

Associate Professor Akiko Kojima-Yuasa's team at Osaka Metropolitan University delved into the cinnamic acid ester ethyl p-methoxycinnamate, a key component of kencur ginger, to explore its potential as an energy inhibitor.

Previous research revealed that ethyl p-methoxycinnamate has inhibitory effects on cancer cells. When administered to Ehrlich ascites tumor cells, the acid ester disrupted ATP production by targeting de novo fatty acid synthesis and lipid metabolism, rather than glycolysis as previously thought.

The latest findings, published in Scientific Reports, showed that the acid ester-induced inhibition led to increased glycolysis, potentially serving as a survival mechanism in the cells. This adaptability was attributed to the compound's inability to induce cell death.

Professor Kojima-Yuasa emphasized that these findings not only enhance our understanding of the Warburg effect but also offer insights into new therapeutic targets and treatment approaches.