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Targeting Human Cytomegalovirus as a Novel Approach for Glioblastoma Treatment
Thelma Flores1, Eloïse Delpierre1, Ghislain Male1
1Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity), Université de Toulouse, INSERM, CNRS, UT, Hôpital Purpan-BP 3028, 1 Place du Dr Baylac, 31024 Toulouse, France.
Abstract:
Glioblastoma (GB) is a highly aggressive brain tumor with a very poor prognosis. Treatment usually consists of surgery, followed by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, but the prognosis remains poor due to its resistance to therapies and a high recurrence rate. Multiple studies have reported the presence of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) proteins and/or nucleic acids in GB tissues, suggesting its possible implication. These findings have led to the hypothesis that HCMV may contribute to tumor progression, immune evasion, angiogenesis, and resistance to therapy. Clinical trials using anti-HCMV therapies have shown promising preliminary results, indicating a potential therapeutic benefit. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current evidence linking HCMV to GB and the therapeutic implications. A deeper understanding of this complex interaction could unveil novel strategies for GB treatment.
Insights
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) may play a role in glioblastoma (GB) progression and resistance to treatment. Targeting HCMV shows potential as a novel therapeutic strategy for this aggressive brain tumor.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Virology
- Cancer Biology
Background:
- Glioblastoma (GB) is an aggressive brain tumor with poor prognosis despite standard treatments.
- High recurrence rates and therapy resistance are characteristic of glioblastoma.
- Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) presence in GB tissues suggests a potential etiological link.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence linking HCMV to glioblastoma.
- To explore the potential role of HCMV in GB progression, immune evasion, angiogenesis, and therapy resistance.
- To discuss the therapeutic implications of targeting HCMV in glioblastoma treatment.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of studies investigating HCMV in glioblastoma.
- Analysis of findings on HCMV proteins and nucleic acids in GB tissues.
- Evaluation of preliminary clinical trial data for anti-HCMV therapies in GB.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests HCMV proteins/nucleic acids are present in GB tissues.
- HCMV is hypothesized to contribute to GB tumor progression, immune evasion, angiogenesis, and therapy resistance.
- Preliminary clinical trials indicate potential therapeutic benefits of anti-HCMV therapies.
Conclusions:
- A significant association between HCMV and glioblastoma is suggested.
- HCMV may be a contributing factor to glioblastoma's aggressive nature and treatment resistance.
- Targeting HCMV presents a promising avenue for novel glioblastoma treatment strategies.
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