Abstract: Metabolic reprogramming occurs widely in dividing cancer cells. However, its origin is still unclear. Herein we put forward a concept to characterize the potential free electrons for metabolic compounds. Using such a concept, we can easily quantitate the electrons consumed in metabolic reactions. Derived from the electron conservation law in chemical conversions, we have further established an electron balance model for the core metabolism, which can commendably profile metabolic actions in the hypoxic conditions. Our model stipulates that the electron transfer drives metabolic reprogramming, provides the promising targets for cocktail inhibitors to achieve the controlling of tumor growth under hypoxia.

Key words: cancer metabolism, metabolic reprogramming, hypoxia, electron transfer