Mitochondrial DNA Alterations in Glioblastoma and Current Therapeutic Targets

Metabolic reprogramming within tumor cells involves a shift towards either glycolysis or mitochondrial respiration, depending on the stage of tumor progression. Consequently, irreversible dysfunction of the mitochondria is considered a crucial mechanism driving the progression mechanism. While numerous mutations in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) have been identified across various tumor types, including glioblastoma, many studies have been limited in the scope, focusing on small segments of mtDNA or utilizing sequencing methods with restricted sensitivity. As a result, several potentially significant mtDNA mutations may have been underestimated, along with their heteroplasmic states, which play a crucial role in determining the phenotypic impact of mtDNA mutation. Although both somatic and germline mtDNA mutations have been observed in different tumor types, research on the mtDNA mutations linked to glioblastoma remains scarce. The mitochondrial genome encodes thirteen protein-coding genes that are essential for the proper functioning of respiratory complex chains. Alterations in mitochondrial function manifest at various levels, including structural and functional changes, impacting mitogenic, hemodynamic, bioenergetic, and apoptotic signaling pathways. These alterations often signify a reduced efficiency of the oxidative phosphorylation system and energy production in tumor cells. As the crucial role of mitochondrial dysfunction in glioma development grows, mitochondria have emerged as promising targets for therapy aimed at overcoming chemoresistance and eliminating cancer cells. This brief review outlines the association between mtDNA alteration and glioblastoma, as well as the current advancements in therapeutic strategies targeting mtDNA alterations.