Final answer:
Abnormal carbohydrate metabolism in cancer is characterized by increased glycolysis and the production of enzymes that contribute to tumor invasiveness.
Step-by-step explanation:
Abnormalities in carbohydrate metabolism can occur in cancer due to various factors. In some cases, cancer cells may increase the rate of glycolysis, which is a process that breaks down glucose to produce energy. This increased glycolysis can lead to an accumulation of lactate and a decrease in oxygen levels, creating an environment that favors tumor growth. Additionally, cancer cells may produce enzymes such as proteases and glycosidases, which play a role in the invasiveness of tumors. These abnormalities in carbohydrate metabolism contribute to the unique metabolic characteristics of cancer cells.