Abstract 2489 HK2 is conditionally essential for growth in human cancer cells

The genetic drivers of cell growth are shaped by an interplay of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Despite mounting evidence that gene essentiality can be modulated by cell growth conditions, there is limited consideration into how nutrient availability affects cell-essential genes. We previously tested the hypothesis that the nutrient environment affects gene essentiality in human cells. By performing CRISPR screens with blood cancer cell lines, we identified sets of genes differentially required for cells cultured in traditional (e.g., RPMI) versus Human Plasma-Like Medium (HPLM).