Expression and Functional Role of the P2X7 Receptor in Glioma Models and Tissues: A Systematic Review
Maciej Baron1, Piotr Lewandowski2, Bartosz Bula2
1Department of Pathomorphology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia in Katowice, 40-055 Katowice, Poland.
Abstract:
Background: Gliomas are the most common primary tumours of the central nervous system. Despite a multimodal therapeutic approach combining surgery, radiotherapy, and temozolomide (TMZ), treatment remains highly challenging, and the prognosis is poor. One of the potential molecular targets that may improve therapeutic outcomes is the purinergic receptor P2X7 (P2X7R). Methods: The aim of this systematic review was to summarize current knowledge on the expression, functionality, and therapeutic relevance of P2X7R in gliomas. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science) up to 12 April 2025. Original in vitro and in vivo studies evaluating P2X7R in glioma models were included. Results: A total of 41 studies met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. For each included study, the risk of bias was assessed using the OHAT Risk of Bias Tool. The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO. Although individual studies differed in methodology and outcomes, the majority reported that P2X7R modulation affected glioma cell behaviour, including proliferation, survival, migration, immune signalling, and response to treatment. Due to the heterogeneity of models and endpoints, a narrative synthesis was performed. Conclusions: Overall, current evidence suggests that P2X7R may represent a biologically relevant and pharmacologically actionable target in gliomas, although further high-quality studies are required to confirm its clinical potential.
Insights
The purinergic receptor P2X7 (P2X7R) shows potential for improving glioma treatment. Modulating P2X7R impacts glioma cell behavior and treatment response, suggesting it as a viable therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Gliomas are primary central nervous system tumors with poor prognosis despite multimodal therapy.
- Current treatments include surgery, radiotherapy, and temozolomide (TMZ).
- The purinergic receptor P2X7 (P2X7R) is a potential molecular target for improved glioma outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review current knowledge on P2X7R expression, function, and therapeutic relevance in gliomas.
- To summarize findings from in vitro and in vivo studies on P2X7R in glioma models.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to April 12, 2025.
- Inclusion of original in vitro and in vivo studies on P2X7R in glioma models.
- Risk of bias assessment using the OHAT Risk of Bias Tool; protocol registered in PROSPERO.
Main Results:
- Analysis of 41 studies revealed P2X7R modulation impacts glioma cell proliferation, survival, migration, and immune signaling.
- Most studies indicated P2X7R affects response to glioma treatments.
- Heterogeneity in study methodologies and endpoints necessitated a narrative synthesis.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence suggests P2X7R is a biologically relevant target in gliomas.
- P2X7R represents a pharmacologically actionable target for glioma therapy.
- Further high-quality research is needed to confirm the clinical potential of P2X7R in gliomas.
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