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Updated: Jun 4, 2025

Identification of Intracellular Signaling Events Induced in Viable Cells by Interaction with Neighboring Cells Undergoing Apoptotic Cell Death
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Kappa opioid receptor internalisation-induced p38 nuclear translocation suppresses glioma progression

Yong Li1, Wenying Wang2, Han She1

  • 1Department of Anesthesiology, Daping Hospital, Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.

British Journal of Anaesthesia
|December 31, 2024
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Increased kappa opioid receptor (KOP receptor) expression correlates with better glioma prognosis. KOP receptor agonists show potential as adjuvant therapies, inhibiting tumor growth and promoting apoptosis in preclinical models.

Area of Science:

  • Neuro-oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Perioperative medications may influence outcomes in malignant tumor surgery, including cancer recurrence and metastasis.
  • Glioma, a primary brain tumor, presents significant therapeutic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of kappa opioid receptor (KOP receptor) in glioma progression and therapeutic potential.
  • To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying KOP receptor's effect on glioma cells.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized a multi-level approach: bioinformatics, immunohistochemistry, RNA sequencing, gene expression modulation, in vitro cell assays, and in vivo orthotopic tumor transplantation.
  • Examined KOP receptor expression in clinical glioma samples and animal models.
  • Investigated the impact of KOP receptor manipulation on glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cell behavior and tumor growth.

Main Results:

  • Higher KOP receptor expression was significantly associated with improved prognosis in glioma patients.
  • KOP receptor overexpression in GBM cells inhibited proliferation, induced cell cycle arrest, and promoted apoptosis in vitro.
  • In vivo studies demonstrated that KOP receptor overexpression suppressed glioma growth and extended survival in mice.
  • Mechanistically, KOP receptor activation led to p38 pathway phosphorylation, influencing downstream gene expression.

Conclusions:

  • Findings support the potential of KOP receptor agonists as adjuvant therapeutic agents for glioma.
  • Targeting the KOP receptor pathway may offer a novel strategy to improve glioma treatment outcomes.
Keywords:
KOP agonistKOP receptorglioblastoma multiformep38 MAP kinasereceptor internalisation

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