TGF-β links glycolysis and immunosuppression in glioblastoma

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive brain tumor in adults, characterized by diffuse infiltration, dysplasia, and resistance to therapy. Metabolic remodeling and immunosuppression are typical events which contribute to GBM progression, but the molecular link between these two events remains largely undetermined. Studies have shown that high levels of transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) and its receptors are associated with glioma malignancy and a poor prognosis. TGF-β plays an important role in cell metabolism and immunity. During tumorigenesis, TGF-β induces a shift in cell metabolism from oxidative phosphorylation to aerobic glycolysis, providing a favorable environment for tumor growth. Locally, TGF-β creates an immunosuppressive microenvironment and promotes the malignant phenotype of GBM. In this review, we aim to link GBM aerobic glycolysis and immunosuppression through TGF-β to provide new ideas for the study of GBM.