Fatty Acid Naturally Curbs Cancer Cell Growth

A joint research team from KAIST and Korea University has identified that 13-HODE, a lipid metabolite produced when linoleic acid—abundant in vegetable oils—is metabolized, directly inhibits the mTOR protein. mTOR, which regulates cell growth and energy usage, becomes excessively active in cancer cells, promoting uncontrolled proliferation. The team, including Professors Seyun Kim, Young-Joo Byun, and collaborators from Gachon University and the University of Maryland, found that 13-HODE binds to mTOR’s active site, blocking its function in cancer cells. The discovery was made through metabolite screening, molecular docking simulations, and mass spectrometry, confirming 13-HODE’s direct interaction with mTOR. The research also showed that breast and colorectal cancer cells have low levels of 13-HODE due to reduced ALOX15 enzyme activity, which is essential for its production. Increasing ALOX15 and 13-HODE levels suppressed mTOR activity and slowed cancer cell growth, suggesting a new therapeutic approach. Professor Seyun Kim emphasized the significance of the findings, stating that lipid metabolites like 13-HODE could be leveraged for anticancer treatments. The research also hints at broader applications, including regulating mTOR overactivation in inflammation and aging. The study was announced by Korea University on the 2nd, marking a potential breakthrough in natural cancer treatment strategies. Collaborators included Professor Mi Young Kim from KAIST, Professor Byung-Chul Oh from Gachon University, and Professors Patrick L. Wintrode and Daniel Deredge from the University of Maryland. The findings were published as part of a global effort to control mTOR, a key target in anticancer research. The team’s work highlights the potential of dietary-derived metabolites in cancer therapy, offering a novel pathway for future medical interventions.