Research progress in targeting methionine metabolism for cancer immunotherapy

Li Lin; Zheng Yixing; Huang Lan

doi:10.16689/j.cnki.cn11-9349/r.2026.04.004

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Electronic Journal of Metabolism and Nutrition of Cancer ›› 2026, Vol. 13 ›› Issue (4) : 478-483. DOI: 10.16689/j.cnki.cn11-9349/r.2026.04.004

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Research progress in targeting methionine metabolism for cancer immunotherapy

Li Lin, Zheng Yixing, Huang Lan

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Abstract

The metabolic remodeling represents a critical hallmark of cancer. Numerous studies have revealed that methionine metabolism reprogramming promotes tumor progression. Methionine, the only sulfur-containing amino acid among essential amino acids, is essential for protein synthesis, redox balance and metabolic regulation, also participating in the transfer of methyl groups in the body. Dietary methionine restriction has been proven to inhibit tumor growth and improve response to various anti-cancer therapies. There are other cellular components in the tumor microenvironment, including T cells as a major driver of anti-tumor immunity. T cell-targeted immunotherapy has become the cornerstone of cancer treatments in recent years. Methionine is also essential for T cells, and its dual effects on cancer cells and immune cells have raised concerns about dietary methionine restriction for cancer treatment. In addition, methionine restriction may cause side effects on nutritional status and gut microbiota, even increasing the risk of cachexia of cancer patients. Here, this review summarizes the methionine metabolism in cancer biology, and highlights the research progress on targeting methionine metabolism for cancer immunotherapy.

Key words

Methionine / Metabolic reprogramming / Tumor microenvironment / Immunotherapy / T cell / Metabolic homeostasis / Nutritional intervention / Epigenetic regulation

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Li Lin, Zheng Yixing, Huang Lan. Research progress in targeting methionine metabolism for cancer immunotherapy[J]. Electronic Journal of Metabolism and Nutrition of Cancer. 2026, 13(4): 478-483 https://doi.org/10.16689/j.cnki.cn11-9349/r.2026.04.004

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