Crabtree effect

The Crabtree effect is the suppression of cellular respiration by glycolysis, often resulting in a maladaptive decrease in cellular energy and adaptability 1. This phenomenon is typically associated with tumors, rapidly proliferating normal cells, and certain bacteria, but it can also occur in normal tissues under stress or when oxygen supply is limited 2. The Crabtree effect is characterized by the inhibition of respiration in the presence of glucose, which can lead to the accumulation of lactate and a decrease in cellular energy production 2.

In contrast to the Pasteur effect, which is a normal control system that limits glycolysis in the presence of adequate oxygen, the Crabtree effect tends to lower cellular energy and adaptability 1. The Crabtree effect has been observed in various situations, including hyperventilation, stress, and certain diseases, where the respiratory defect leads to the production of lactate and a decrease in cellular energy production 2.

The Crabtree effect is closely related to the Warburg effect, which describes the aerobic production of lactate by cancer cells, even in the presence of adequate oxygen 5. The Crabtree effect has also been linked to the Randle effect, which describes the inhibition of glucose oxidation by an excess of fatty acids, leading to a decrease in metabolic efficiency 3.

Studies have shown that the Crabtree effect is a common feature of rapidly proliferating cells, including cancer cells, and that it is associated with a decrease in cellular energy production and an increase in lactate production 2. The Crabtree effect has also been linked to various diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and dementia, where the respiratory defect leads to the production of lactate and a decrease in cellular energy production 5.