Biologically active sphingolipids in cancer pathogenesis and treatment

Biologically active sphingolipids have key roles in the regulation of several fundamental biological processes that are integral to cancer pathogenesis. Recent significant progress in understanding biologically active sphingolipid synthesis, specifically within ceramide and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P)-mediated pathways, has identified crucial roles for these molecules both in cancer development and progression. Ceramide - a central molecule in sphingolipid metabolism - in effect functions as a tumour-suppressor lipid, inducing antiproliferative and apoptotic responses in various cancer cells. Conversely, S1P induces responses that, on aggregate, render S1P a tumour-promoting lipid. These discoveries are paving the way for the advancement of anticancer therapies.