Role of pyruvate kinase M2 in regulating sepsis (Review).

Abstract

Glycolysis occurs in all living organisms as a form of energy supply. Pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2) is one of the rate‑limiting enzymes in the glycolytic process. PKM2 is considered to serve an important role in several terminal diseases, including sepsis. However, to the best of our knowledge, the specific mechanistic role of PKM2 in sepsis remains to be systematically summarised. Therefore, the present review aims to summarise the roles of PKM2 in sepsis progression. In addition, potential treatment strategies for patients with sepsis are discussed. The present review hopes to lay the groundwork for studying the role of PKM2 and developing therapeutic strategies against metabolic disorders that occur during sepsis.