The Warburg effect in cancer cells describes aerobic glycolysis. Despite adequate oxygen, cancer cells preferentially convert pyruvate to lactate. What is the PRIMARY biochemical advantage of this metabolic reprogramming?
- A Regeneration of NAD+ and diversion of glycolytic intermediates into biosynthetic pathways ✓
- B Higher ATP yield per glucose molecule
- C Avoidance of reactive oxygen species production
- D Upregulation of the TCA cycle for energy
Correct answer: A. Regeneration of NAD+ and diversion of glycolytic intermediates into biosynthetic pathways
Explanation
The Warburg effect allows cancer cells to rapidly regenerate NAD+ (via LDH: pyruvate → lactate), maintaining high glycolytic flux even with intact mitochondria. More importantly, it diverts glycolytic intermediates (G6P → PPP for NADPH and ribose-5-phosphate; 3-phosphoglycerate → serine/glycine; DHAP → glycerol-3-phosphate) into biosynthetic pathways needed for rapid proliferation. ATP yield per glucose is actually lower, but the carbon economy and biosynthetic substrate provision outweigh this.
Reference: Harper's Illustrated Biochemistry, 32nd ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
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