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Signaling pathways and therapeutic approaches in glioblastoma multiforme (Review)
Marsel Khabibov1, Airat Garifullin2, Yanis Boumber3
1Department of Oncology, I. M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119992 Moscow, Russia.
Abstract:
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive type of primary brain tumor and is associated with a poor clinical prognosis. Despite the progress in the understanding of the molecular and genetic changes that promote tumorigenesis, effective treatment options are limited. The present review intended to identify and summarize major signaling pathways and genetic abnormalities involved in the pathogenesis of GBM, as well as therapies that target these pathways. Glioblastoma remains a difficult to treat tumor; however, in the last two decades, significant improvements in the understanding of GBM biology have enabled advances in available therapeutics. Significant genomic events and signaling pathway disruptions (NF‑κB, Wnt, PI3K/AKT/mTOR) involved in the formation of GBM were discussed. Current therapeutic options may only marginally prolong survival and the current standard of therapy cures only a small fraction of patients. As a result, there is an unmet requirement for further study into the processes of glioblastoma pathogenesis and the discovery of novel therapeutic targets in novel signaling pathways implicated in the evolution of glioblastoma.
Insights
Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive brain tumor with limited treatments. This review summarizes key pathways and genetic changes in GBM, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Genetics
Background:
- Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive primary brain tumor, characterized by poor prognosis.
- Despite advances in understanding GBM tumorigenesis, effective treatment options remain limited.
- Current therapies offer only marginal survival benefits for most patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize the major signaling pathways and genetic abnormalities in GBM pathogenesis.
- To identify and discuss current and emerging therapies targeting these pathways.
- To underscore the need for novel therapeutic strategies in glioblastoma treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific articles on glioblastoma pathogenesis.
- Analysis of genomic events and signaling pathway disruptions (NF-κB, Wnt, PI3K/AKT/mTOR).
- Synthesis of information on current therapeutic approaches and their limitations.
Main Results:
- Identified key signaling pathways (NF-κB, Wnt, PI3K/AKT/mTOR) and genetic abnormalities driving GBM.
- Highlighted significant genomic events contributing to glioblastoma formation.
- Emphasized that current treatments have limited efficacy, curing only a small fraction of patients.
Conclusions:
- Glioblastoma remains a challenging tumor to treat, necessitating further research.
- A deeper understanding of GBM biology is crucial for developing more effective therapies.
- Discovery of novel therapeutic targets in implicated signaling pathways is essential for improving patient outcomes.
