Novel role for the LKB1 pathway in controlling monocarboxylate fuel transporters

A question preoccupying many researchers is how signal transduction pathways control metabolic processes and energy production. A study by Jang et al. ( Jang, C., G. Lee, and J. Chung. 2008. J. Cell Biol. 183: 11 - 17) provides evidence that in Drosophila melanogaster a signaling network controlled by the LKB1 tumor suppressor regulates trafficking of an Sln/dMCT1 monocarboxylate transporter to the plasma membrane. This enables cells to import additional energy sources such as lactate and butyrate, enhancing the repertoire of fuels they can use to power vital activities.