Physical Forces in Glioblastoma Migration: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Biophysics
• Cancer Biology

Background:

• Glioblastoma (GBM) invasion is a key factor in its aggressiveness, treatment resistance, and patient mortality.
• The tumor microenvironment (TME) influences GBM cell behavior through epigenetic and genetic alterations.
• Physical forces, such as extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness, are increasingly recognized as critical factors in cancer progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current understanding of physical forces influencing glioblastoma (GBM) invasion.
• To explore how GBM cells interact with and are affected by their physical environment.
• To identify potential therapeutic targets related to physical forces in GBM.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search of the PubMed database was conducted up to March 23, 2022.
• Search terms included "glioblastoma," "physical forces" (and related terms), and "migration" or "invasion."
• The review synthesized findings on external/applied/mechanical forces and TME forces impacting GBM.

Main Results:

• The review identified 11 external/applied/mechanical forces and 2 tumor microenvironment (TME) forces affecting GBM local migration and invasion.
• Both external and TME-derived physical forces are implicated in GBM's invasive capabilities.
• These forces are linked to GBM's resistance to treatment.

Conclusions:

• Physical forces play a significant role in glioblastoma (GBM) migration, invasion, and treatment resistance.
• Further research into these physical forces is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies.
• Targeting physical forces presents a promising avenue for improving patient survival in GBM.