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Updated: Mar 6, 2026
Quantitative Immunohistochemistry of the Cellular Microenvironment in Patient Glioblastoma Resections
Published on: July 31, 2017
Abstract:
In this podcast, a new biological insight in brain tumours is discussed. The author's group has identified the existence of a tumour cell network in incurable gliomas which facilitates multicellular communication and exchange of small molecules between single tumour cells. The tumour cells that are integrated in this network, around 50% of cells according to studies in mouse models and patient samples, appear to be protected from the effects of radiotherapy and possibly also chemotherapy, which may explain how such tumours develop resistance to therapies and why patients relapse after treatment. An overview of ideas that are being investigated preclinically to therapeutically target this network of tumour cells is given. These include approaches to disrupt the network, such as obstructing cellular communication with gap junction blockers and targeting the neurodevelopmental pathways required to form the networks. Conversely, methods to exploit the network through the local application of gap junction-permeable drugs that specifically target the integrated tumour cells could also being studied. This new discovery may result in the development of therapeutic strategies which the author hopes will reach the clinic in the next few years.
Insights
Scientists discovered a tumor cell network in gliomas facilitating communication and protecting cells from therapy. This network may explain treatment resistance and relapse, prompting research into new therapeutic strategies targeting these interconnected brain tumor cells.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Cellular Communication
Background:
- Gliomas are aggressive brain tumors with poor prognoses.
- Treatment resistance and tumor recurrence are significant challenges in glioma therapy.
- The existence and role of intercellular communication networks in gliomas were previously underexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize a tumor cell network in gliomas.
- To investigate the functional implications of this network in tumor cell survival and therapy resistance.
- To explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting the identified network.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of mouse models and patient-derived glioma samples.
- Investigation of multicellular communication and small molecule exchange between tumor cells.
- Preclinical evaluation of therapeutic approaches to disrupt or exploit the tumor cell network.
Main Results:
- Identification of a tumor cell network in approximately 50% of glioma cells.
- Demonstration that cells within this network are protected from radiotherapy and potentially chemotherapy.
- Evidence suggesting this network contributes to therapeutic resistance and tumor relapse.
Conclusions:
- A novel tumor cell network exists in gliomas, mediating intercellular communication and conferring therapy resistance.
- Targeting this network presents a promising avenue for developing novel glioma treatments.
- Further research and preclinical investigations are underway to translate these findings into clinical applications.
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