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Published on: October 27, 2014
Targeting Tumor Necrosis Factor-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand (TRAIL): A Promising Therapeutic Strategy in
George A Alexiou1, Konstantinos I Tsamis1, Athanasios P Kyritsis2
1Neurosurgical Institute, University of Ioannina School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece.
Abstract:
Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) has been increasingly studied for the treatment of gliomas. TRAIL has the ability to specifically target cancer cells, without any harmful effects on normal cells, and induces apoptosis by interacting with specific receptors. Nevertheless, resistance mechanisms to TRAIL may occur at different points in the signaling pathways of TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Various approaches have been developed to overcome TRAIL resistance. Here, we have reviewed the known molecular pathways by which TRAIL exerts anticancer activity, possible resistance mechanisms, ways to sensitize resistant cancer cells, and finally the current clinical successes or limitations of TRAIL-based therapies.
Insights
Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) shows promise for glioma treatment by targeting cancer cells. This review explores TRAIL
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Therapeutics
Background:
- Gliomas are aggressive brain tumors with limited treatment options.
- Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) selectively induces apoptosis in cancer cells.
- TRAIL therapy faces challenges due to cancer cell resistance mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review TRAIL's anticancer mechanisms in gliomas.
- To elucidate TRAIL resistance pathways and overcoming strategies.
- To assess the clinical efficacy and limitations of TRAIL-based therapies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of TRAIL signaling pathways.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms of TRAIL resistance.
- Evaluation of strategies to sensitize resistant glioma cells.
- Review of clinical trial data for TRAIL-based treatments.
Main Results:
- TRAIL induces apoptosis via specific receptor interactions.
- Multiple resistance mechanisms exist within TRAIL signaling pathways.
- Sensitization strategies can enhance TRAIL efficacy.
- Clinical applications show promise but face limitations.
Conclusions:
- TRAIL is a potential targeted therapy for gliomas.
- Understanding and overcoming TRAIL resistance is crucial for clinical success.
- Further research and clinical trials are needed to optimize TRAIL-based treatments.
