Glucose's Expanded Role in Enhancing T Cell Cancer Defense Beyond Energy Production

Recent research from the Van Andel Institute uncovers a surprising role of glucose in immune cell function. Traditionally known as the primary energy source for T cells, glucose also plays a crucial part in synthesizing glycosphingolipids (GSLs), large molecules vital for T cell growth, communication, and anti-cancer activity. These GSLs contribute to forming lipid rafts—specialized structures on T cell surfaces that facilitate effective signaling needed to target and destroy cancer cells. When glucose is used to produce GSLs, T cells become more potent fighters against tumors, whereas a deficiency in GSLs weakens their ability to launch immune responses. This discovery advances our understanding of immune metabolism, indicating that supplying or modifying nutrients could optimize T cell-based therapies. The insights suggest that supporting glucose use for GSL synthesis could enhance the immune system's cancer-fighting capacity and potentially make cancer cells more vulnerable to immune attack. The study emphasizes the importance of metabolic pathways in immune cell efficacy and opens new avenues for immunotherapy development.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-glucose-cells-cancer-energy.html