The Application of Peptides in Glioma: A Novel Tool for Therapy

Li Li1, Jianhong Chen1, Yue Ming1

  • 1Department of Pharmacy, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China.

Abstract

Insights

Peptides offer a promising new approach for treating aggressive brain tumors like glioma. These molecules can target tumors, penetrate the blood-brain barrier, and stimulate immune responses, revolutionizing treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Neuro-oncology
  • Peptide Therapeutics
  • Drug Delivery Systems

Background:

  • Glioma is a highly aggressive and lethal central nervous system tumor.
  • Current treatments like chemotherapy and radiotherapy have limited efficacy due to tumor heterogeneity, invasiveness, and the blood-brain barrier (BBB).
  • Peptides are emerging as a novel therapeutic agent with significant potential for glioma treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review current knowledge on the use of peptides for glioma treatment.
  • To explore the multifaceted roles of peptides in combating glioma.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed.
  • The review focused on studies detailing peptide applications in glioma therapy.

Main Results:

  • Peptides serve as surface decorations for delivery systems, enhancing drug distribution and accumulation at tumor sites.
  • Peptides function as direct anti-tumor agents, inhibiting glioma growth and reducing tumor volume.
  • Peptides act as immune-stimulating factors, activating or recruiting immune cells to overcome glioma-induced immunosuppression.

Conclusions:

  • Peptide application represents a revolutionary advancement in glioma treatment, leveraging targeting, penetration, anti-tumor, and immunostimulatory activities.
  • Combining different peptides shows superior outcomes compared to single-peptide therapies.
  • Numerous preclinical studies demonstrate promising in vitro and in vivo results for multifarious peptides in glioma models.

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