Cancer metabolism refers to the unique way that cancer cells process nutrients and energy to support their rapid growth and division. Unlike normal cells, which primarily use oxygen to generate energy, many cancer cells rely on a process called aerobic glycolysis, where they convert glucose into energy even in the presence of oxygen. This shift allows cancer cells to produce the building blocks needed for new cells more efficiently. This altered metabolism is often referred to as the Warburg effect, named after the scientist Otto Warburg, who first described it. Understanding cancer metabolism is crucial for developing targeted therapies that can disrupt these processes, potentially slowing down tumor growth and improving treatment outcomes.