How does aberrant pyruvate metabolism contribute to cancer progression?

Aberrant pyruvate metabolism is a significant factor in cancer progression, particularly through the Warburg Effect, where cancer cells preferentially utilize glycolysis for energy production even in the presence of oxygen. This leads to increased lactate production via lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), which supports rapid cell proliferation and survival, allowing cancer cells to thrive under conditions that would be unfavorable for normal cells.