2deoxyDglucose6phosphate

2-deoxy-D-glucose, often abbreviated as 2DG, is a glucose analog. Glucose is a primary sugar used by cells for energy. 2DG differs from glucose by the absence of a hydroxyl group at the 2' carbon position. This structural difference significantly impacts its metabolic fate within cells.

When cells encounter 2DG, they can transport it into the cell and phosphorylate it by hexokinase, similar to glucose. However, the subsequent metabolic pathways that normally process phosphorylated glucose are blocked for 2DG. It cannot be further metabolized through glycolysis. Instead, 2DG-6-phosphate can accumulate within cells and act as an inhibitor of key enzymes involved in glucose metabolism, such as phosphoglucose isomerase. This interference can lead to a reduction in cellular ATP production.

Due to its ability to disrupt glucose metabolism, 2DG has been investigated for various therapeutic applications, particularly in cancer research. Cancer cells often exhibit increased glucose uptake and utilization, a phenomenon known as the Warburg effect. By inhibiting glucose metabolism, 2DG can potentially starve cancer cells of energy and slow their growth. Research has explored its use as an anticancer agent, both alone and in combination with other therapies. It has also been studied for its effects on other conditions where altered glucose metabolism plays a role.