Role of Bis(monoacylglycero)phosphate in Cancer Metabolism

Our cells constantly require energy to maintain their functions. This energy is either obtained from nutrients or generated through the recycling of cellular components. Cancer cells, which divide more rapidly than normal cells, have a particularly high energy demand. This recycling occurs in lysosomes, the recycling centers of the cell. Because cancer cells place heavy demands on their lysosomes, these organelles are more prone to damage. When lysosomes are destroyed, the cell dies. Certain cancer therapies exploit this by specifically targeting the fragile lysosomes in cancer cells. A specific fat molecule called bis(monoacylglycero)phosphate (BMP) plays a key role in the function of lysosomes. A deficiency in BMP significantly disrupts the breakdown of cellular material and the stability of lysosomes. However, the precise role of BMP remains largely unclear. Our research project investigates the function of BMP in lysosomes. To do this, we selectively disable genes involved in the production of this molecule to understand how changes impact cancer cells. Furthermore, we examine whether altering BMP levels increases the sensitivity of cancer cells to lysosome-targeting therapies, potentially improving the effectiveness of existing treatment strategies.

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