The Circadian Clock in Glioblastoma: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Potential

Glioblastoma (GBM) is an aggressive brain cancer in adults. Circadian rhythms regulate the sleep-wake cycle, which influences the body's physiological functions. Disruption of circadian rhythms is associated with certain neurological diseases, including GBM. The present narrative review highlights the relationship between circadian rhythm and GBM, the related mechanisms, and the therapeutic approaches against GBM. It also discusses how alterations in the expression of core circadian genes contribute to glioma genesis, especially GBM, and how restoring normal circadian gene function may suppress GBM progression. Additionally, chronotherapy could be considered a potential therapeutic approach for GBM. Aligning chemotherapy and radiotherapy with the internal clock of each patient may have the potential to increase the efficacy of treatments. A better understanding of the potential mechanisms underlying the association between circadian rhythm and GBM pathogenesis may help guide future circadian-based therapeutic approaches; however, further investigation is required.