Part 3/8:
In a series of experiments, the researchers systematically introduced individual amino acids back into the culture to see which could sustain cell viability. They found that while glucose alone could prolong the life of the cells temporarily, it was the addition of glutamine that triggered a significant surge in growth, unparalleled by the effects of other amino acids.
Synergistic Effects of Glutamine and Glucose
The findings revealed that glutamine and glucose operate synergistically, enhancing the metabolism and energy production necessary for the rapid, disregulated growth characteristic of cancer cells. This led researchers to question whether glutamine could be aerobically respired or fermented to produce energy.