Key points about PKM2:

Structure: Pyruvate kinase isoform with tetrameric and dimeric forms, regulated by alternative splicing and post-translational modifications.

Metabolic Role: Converts phosphoenolpyruvate to pyruvate during glycolysis, supporting the Warburg effect in cancer cells.

Cellular Functions:

• Metabolic bottleneck creation
• Redirects glycolytic intermediates for cell growth
• Supports rapid cell division

Nuclear Functions:

• Protein kinase and transcriptional coactivator
• Interacts with HIF-1α
• Modifies histone H3
• Influences gene expression

Cancer Significance:

• Preferentially expressed in cancer cells
• Contributes to tumor growth and survival
• Maintains cellular redox balance
• Potential therapeutic target

Research Approaches:

• Exploring PKM2 tetramer activators
• Developing inhibitors
• Investigating as potential diagnostic biomarker

Challenges: Complex protein functions complicate targeted therapy development.