Lipid metabolism in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

The head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the most common malignant tumours. New therapeutic strategies target the tumour metabolism. In this regard, this study would analyse the Lipid metabolism of the HNSCC.

The lipid composition of the tumours and the lipid uptake of tumour-infiltrating immune cells in HNSCC were examined within the scope of the study. The results were compared with the lipid metabolism of corresponding healthy mucosa in 29 patients. The lipid species concentrations were determined by means of direct flow injection analysis (FIA) coupled to triple-quadrupole (QQQ) or Fourier-transform-mass-spectrometry (FTMS).

This study could show that the concentration of cholesteryl ester (CE) is significantly higher in every localisation of the HNSCC in comparison to the healthy mucosa. Likewise, the concentrations of phosphatidylcholine ether(PC O) in tumours (oral cavity, larynx and hypopharynx) is higher than in healthy mucosa. Ceramide (Cer) was significantly higher in all localisations. Hexosylceramide (HexCer) was significantly higher in all locations with exception of the oral cavity. A lower concentration of mono- to fourfold unsaturated PC O lipids could also be detected in the mucosa. Using flow cytometry, we could not detect any significant differences in the uptake of short-chain fatty acids in the tumor-infiltrating T cells, compared to the T cells in the blood and mucosa.

A significant difference in the lipid concentration of CE, PC O, Cer and HexCer in the tumour environment to the healthy mucosa could be demonstrated. This different lipid composition could function as biomarkers. The altered lipid metabolism could represent a new specific target therapy for HNSCC therapy.

Poster-PDF A-1485.pdf

Publication History

Article published online:
13 May 2021