Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 15, 2025

Characterization of the Effects of Migrastatic Inhibitors on 3D Tumor Spheroid Invasion by High-resolution Confocal Microscopy
Published on: September 16, 2019
Low concentrations of vorinostat decrease EB1 expression in GBM cells and affect microtubule dynamics, cell survival
Thomas Perez1,2, Raphaël Bergès1, Hélène Maccario1
1Aix-Marseille University, CNRS, INP, Institute of NeuroPhysiopathology, Marseille, France.
Abstract:
Glioblastoma multiform (GBM) is the most frequent primitive brain tumor with a high recurrence and mortality. Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) have evoked great interest because they are able to change transcriptomic profiles to promote tumor cell death but also induce side effects due to the lack of selectivity. We show in this paper new anticancer properties and mechanisms of action of low concentrations of vorinostat on various GBM cells which acts by affecting microtubule cytoskeleton in a non-histone 3 (H3) manner. Indeed, vorinostat induces tubulin acetylation and detyrosination, affects EB stabilizing cap on microtubule plus ends and suppresses microtubule dynamic instability. We previously identified EB1 overexpression as a marker of bad prognostic in GBM. Interestingly, we show for the first time to our knowledge, a strong decrease of EB1 expression in GBM cells by a drug. Altogether, our results suggest that low dose vorinostat, which is more selective for HDAC6 inhibition, could therefore represent an interesting therapeutic option for GBM especially in patients with EB1 overexpressing tumor with lower expected side effects. A validation of our hypothesis is needed during future clinical trials with this drug in GBM.
Insights
Low-dose vorinostat shows new anticancer effects against glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) by targeting microtubules and reducing EB1 expression, potentially offering a more selective treatment option with fewer side effects.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Therapeutics
Background:
- Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive brain tumor with high mortality.
- Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi) show promise but lack selectivity, causing side effects.
- EB1 overexpression is a known marker of poor prognosis in GBM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the novel anticancer properties and mechanisms of low-dose vorinostat in GBM cells.
- To explore vorinostat's effects on microtubule dynamics and EB1 expression in GBM.
- To assess the therapeutic potential of low-dose vorinostat for GBM, particularly in EB1-overexpressing tumors.
Main Methods:
- Treatment of various GBM cells with low concentrations of vorinostat.
- Analysis of tubulin acetylation and detyrosination.
- Assessment of the impact on microtubule plus-end stabilizing caps (EB proteins) and microtubule dynamics.
- Evaluation of EB1 expression levels in response to vorinostat treatment.
Main Results:
- Low-dose vorinostat affects the microtubule cytoskeleton in a non-histone 3 (H3) manner.
- Vorinostat induces tubulin acetylation and detyrosination, impacting microtubule stability.
- The drug suppresses microtubule dynamic instability by affecting EB stabilizing caps.
- A significant decrease in EB1 expression was observed in GBM cells treated with vorinostat.
Conclusions:
- Low-dose vorinostat, potentially selective for HDAC6, exhibits novel anticancer mechanisms in GBM.
- Vorinostat's ability to decrease EB1 expression is a significant finding for GBM therapy.
- This approach may offer a more targeted and less toxic therapeutic option for GBM patients, especially those with EB1 overexpression.
- Further clinical trials are warranted to validate these findings.
Related Concept Videos
Destabilization of Microtubules
Drugs that Stabilize Microtubules
The Retinoblastoma Gene
The first-ever tumor suppressor gene called Rb was identified in retinoblastoma - a rare eye tumor in children. In inherited forms of the disease, a child inherits one defective copy of the Rb gene, which predisposes them to retinoblastoma. However,...
Drugs that Destabilize Microtubules
Inhibition of Cdk Activity
Receptor Downregulation in MVBs
The EGFR can initiate signaling pathways that lead to cell proliferation, migration, and differentiation. Overexpression of EGFR stimulates cells to proliferate. Excessive EGFR...

