Abstract:
Uncontrolled proliferation is the most prominent biological feature of tumors. In order to meet the needs of rapid proliferation, tumor cells must adjust their metabolic behavior and make the best use of available nutrients, especially for the rapid use and consumption of carbohydrates. Fructose, a hexose monosaccharide, is an isomer of glucose. Unlike that of glucose, fructose's metabolism is not regulated by a rate-limiting enzyme, suggesting that fructose may be more readily available to tumor cells. Although there is currently no convincing direct evidence to show the relationship between fructose and tumor, an increasing number of epidemiological investigations and experimental studies have found that high fructose intake is closely related to tumor development and progression. To identify new strategies for cancer treatment and prevention, we have reviewed the recent advances in the research on fructose metabolism in cells and the relationship between fructose and tumor development.