Endoplasmic reticulum stress‑induced cell death as a potential mechanism for targeted therapy in glioblastoma...

Area of Science:

• Cell Biology
• Neuro-Oncology
• Molecular Medicine

Background:

• The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is vital for protein homeostasis, lipid synthesis, and calcium storage.
• ER stress occurs when unfolded or misfolded proteins accumulate, potentially leading to cell apoptosis via the unfolded protein response (UPR).
• Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive brain tumor with limited treatment options.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review mechanisms of ER stress-induced apoptosis.
• To identify factors influencing ER stress.
• To evaluate ER stress as a potential therapeutic target for GBM.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of ER stress, UPR, and glioblastoma.
• Analysis of molecular pathways linking ER stress to apoptosis.
• Evaluation of preclinical and clinical data on ER stress modulators in GBM.

Main Results:

• ER stress can induce apoptosis in cancer cells, including GBM.
• Factors like genetic mutations and microenvironment influence ER stress levels.
• ER stress may sensitize GBM cells to chemotherapy, such as temozolomide.

Conclusions:

• ER stress is a critical factor in GBM pathogenesis and treatment response.
• Targeting ER stress pathways presents a promising therapeutic avenue for glioblastoma.
• Further research is warranted to optimize ER stress-based therapies for GBM.