AMP-dependent protein kinase alpha 2 isoform promotes hypoxia-induced VEGF expression in human glioblastoma.

Tumor cells respond to hypoxic stress by upregulating a variety of genes involved in glucose uptake, glycolysis, and angiogenesis, all essential to maintaining nutrient availability and intracellular ATP levels. Adenosine monophosphate-dependent kinase (AMPK) is a key sensor for cellular homeostasis and is highly sensitive to changes in AMP:ATP ratios. The two catalytic AMPK alpha isoforms (AMPKalpha1, AMPKalpha2) were investigated with respect to their expression, cellular distribution, and contribution to VEGF expression under hypoxic stress in human U373 glioblastoma cells.