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Published on: July 16, 2018
Mesenchymal migration as a therapeutic target in glioblastoma
Jessie Zhong1, Andre Paul, Stewart J Kellie
1Children's Cancer Research Unit, Kids Research Institute, The Children's Hospital at Westmead, Locked Bag 4001, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia.
Abstract:
Extensive infiltration of the surrounding healthy brain tissue is a cardinal feature of glioblastomas, highly lethal brain tumors. Deep infiltration by the glioblastoma cells renders complete surgical excision difficult and contemporary adjuvant therapies have had little impact on long-term survival. Thus, deep infiltration and resistance to irradiation and chemotherapy remain a major cause of patient mortality. Modern therapies specifically targeted to this unique aspect of glioblastoma cell biology hold significant promise to substantially improve survival rates for glioblastoma patients. In the present paper, we focus on the role of adhesion signaling molecules and the actin cytoskeleton in the mesenchymal mode of motility that characterizes invading glioblastoma cells. We then review current approaches to targeting these elements of the glioblastoma cell migration machinery and discuss other aspects of cell migration that may improve the treatment of infiltrating glioblastoma.
Insights
Glioblastoma cells invade brain tissue extensively, making surgical removal difficult and limiting treatment effectiveness. Targeting cell migration pathways offers a promising strategy to improve survival for these lethal brain tumors.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Cellular Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Glioblastomas are aggressive brain tumors characterized by extensive infiltration of healthy brain tissue.
- This deep infiltration complicates surgical resection and contributes to poor patient outcomes despite current therapies.
- Resistance to radiation and chemotherapy further exacerbates the challenge of treating glioblastomas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of adhesion signaling molecules and the actin cytoskeleton in glioblastoma cell invasion.
- To review existing therapeutic strategies targeting glioblastoma cell migration.
- To explore novel approaches for treating infiltrating glioblastomas.
Main Methods:
- Focus on the mesenchymal mode of motility in invading glioblastoma cells.
- Review of current therapeutic targets related to cell adhesion and cytoskeleton dynamics.
- Discussion of cell migration mechanisms relevant to glioblastoma treatment.
Main Results:
- Adhesion signaling and the actin cytoskeleton are critical for the invasive behavior of glioblastoma cells.
- Targeting these cellular components presents a viable therapeutic avenue.
- Understanding glioblastoma cell migration is key to developing more effective treatments.
Conclusions:
- Targeting glioblastoma cell invasion mechanisms, particularly adhesion and cytoskeleton dynamics, holds significant promise for improving patient survival.
- Further research into cell migration pathways could lead to novel therapeutic strategies.
- Developing treatments that specifically address deep brain tumor infiltration is crucial for advancing glioblastoma patient care.
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