Cancer cells preferentially utilise aerobic glycolysis (Warburg effect) even in the presence of adequate oxygen. Which biochemical advantage does this confer on the tumour?

• A Generates lactate and anabolic precursors (via pentose phosphate and serine pathways) that support biosynthesis and redox balance ✓
• B Maximises ATP yield per glucose molecule, supporting rapid proliferation
• C Prevents reactive oxygen species production by avoiding mitochondrial electron transport
• D Increases oxidative phosphorylation efficiency to meet the high energy demands of dividing cells

Explanation

Although aerobic glycolysis produces far less ATP (2 ATP vs ~32 ATP per glucose) than OXPHOS, its advantage lies in generating biosynthetic intermediates: glucose-6-phosphate feeds the pentose phosphate pathway (nucleotide/NADPH production), 3-phosphoglycerate feeds serine/one-carbon pathways, and pyruvate supports lipid synthesis. Lactate secretion regenerates NAD+ for continued glycolysis. The Warburg effect prioritises building-block production over energy efficiency.

Reference: Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 32nd ed.

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