Colon cancer: The role of sphingolipid metabolic enzymes

Colorectal cancer is one of the most common tumors worldwide, with sustained incidence in developed countries and increasing incidence in developing countries. Although recent studies provide knowledge of the molecular signaling pathways that are implicated in colon carcinogenesis, treatments and outcomes still need further improvement. Bioactive sphingolipids, such as ceramide, sphingosine, and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), are signaling molecules that regulate cellular events including cell proliferation, apoptosis, senescence, angiogenesis, and transformation in response to diverse stimuli. Ceramide and sphingosine mediate numerous cell-stress responses, including induction of apoptosis and cell senescence. In contrast, S1P plays pivotal roles in cell survival, migration, and inflammation. These sphingolipids with opposing roles can be quickly metabolized and catabolized within cells, suggesting that the balance between these potent bioactive lipids may dictate cell fate.