Transcription factors in glioblastoma - Molecular pathogenesis and clinical implications

Glioblastoma, also known as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), is one of the most lethal human cancers, however, the molecular mechanisms driving GBM remain largely elusive. Recent studies have revealed that transcription factors are significantly involved in GBM biology. Transcription factors (TFs), which are proteins that bind DNA to regulate gene expression, have critical roles at focal points in signaling pathways, orchestrating many cellular processes, such as cell growth and proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, immune responses, and metabolism. Dysregulated or mutated TFs are common in GBM, resulting in aberrant gene expression that promotes tumor initiation, progression, and resistance to conventional therapies. In the present Review, we focus on TFs that are implicated in GBM pathogenesis, highlighting their oncogenic or tumor suppressive functions and describing the molecular mechanisms underlying their effect on GBM cells. We also discuss their use as biomarkers for GBM prognosis and therapeutic response, as well as their targeting with drugs for GBM treatment. Deciphering the role of TFs in the biology of GBM will provide new insights into the pathological mechanisms and reveal novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets.