Glioma-associated mesenchymal stem cells

CA3 bridges dietary restriction to glioblastoma suppression and tumor progression as a key downstream effector

Dietary restriction (DR) is recognized as a health-promoting, non-pharmacological intervention with demonstrated inhibitory effects on the initiation and progression of cancer. The molecular mechanisms underpinning DR's anticancer activity are pivotal, with documented evidence of its suppressive role across a spectrum of cancers. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) represents an aggressively malignant intracranial neoplasm, and despite incremental therapeutic and managerial advancements, the clinical outcomes remain suboptimal. Consequently, the discovery of novel molecular markers to augment diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic efficacy is imperative. Employing an array of bioinformatics strategies, we conducted an exhaustive analysis of molecules associated with DR, culminating in the identification of CA3 as a novel molecular marker for GBM. We evaluated its diagnostic and therapeutic potential within GBM. Our data indicate that the DR-associated molecule CA3 may exhibit correlations with multiple GBM phenotypes, including the immune contexture, with particular emphasis on the tumor's invasive and migratory capacities. Subsequent inquiries confirmed that modulating CA3 expression can effectively curb the genesis and progression of GBM. Our research substantiates that DR can mitigate the onset and development of GBM via the gene CA3, thereby validating a novel GBM marker and proposing a non-pharmacological interventional approach for this life-threatening condition.

Retrospective perspectives and future trends in nanomedicine treatment: from single membranes to hybrid membranes

At present, various diseases seriously threaten human life and health, and the development of nanodrug delivery systems has brought about a turnaround for traditional drug treatments, with nanoparticles being precisely targeted to improve bioavailability. Surface modification of nanoparticles can prolong blood circulation time and enhance targeting ability. The application of cell membrane-coated nanoparticles further improves their biocompatibility and active targeting ability, providing new hope for the treatment of various diseases. Various types of cell membrane biomimetic nanoparticles have gradually attracted increasing attention due to their unique advantages. However, the pathological microenvironment of different diseases is complex and varied, and the single-cell membrane has several limitations because a single functional property cannot fully meet the requirements of disease treatment. Hybrid cell membranes integrate the advantages of multiple biological membranes and have become an emerging research hotspot. This review summarizes the application of cell membrane biomimetic nanoparticles in the treatment of various diseases and discusses the advantages, challenges and future development of biomimetic nanoparticles. We propose that the fusion of multiple membranes may be a reasonable trend in the future to provide some ideas and directions for the treatment of various diseases.

Identification of therapeutic targets and immune landscape in glioblastoma through crosstalk with glioma-associated mesenchymal stem cells

BACKGROUND

Glioma-associated mesenchymal stem cells (GA-MSCs) are one of the key factors limiting the effectiveness of glioblastoma (GBM) treatment and contributing to poor patient prognosis, making them a potential therapeutic target for GBM. In-depth research into the complex crosstalk between GA-MSCs and GBM cells not only aids in understanding the mechanisms of GBM progression but also provides valuable insights for developing new potential drugs.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive bioinformatics analysis aimed at identifying shared dysregulated genes between GBM and GA-MSCs. Through hub gene enrichment and immune infiltration analyses, we explored key molecular pathways and the immune landscape. Additionally, Cox regression analysis was employed to identify key factors influencing overall survival in GBM. The expression patterns and functional roles of hub genes were validated across various cancer types and datasets. Finally, dynamic simulations were used to assess the binding affinity of potential drugs to the targets, further supporting their potential as therapeutic candidates.

RESULTS

We identified 32 candidate genes primarily involved in the 1-kappa-B kinase/NF-kappa-B and MAPK signaling pathways, both of which played critical roles in tumor survival, proliferation, and invasion. Notable hub genes included DUSP1, FYN, FLNC, FN1, G3BP1, MYO1B, and WLS, each contributing uniquely to GBM progression. Among them, FLNC was highlighted as a key regulatory factor in GBM progression. Molecular dynamics simulations further revealed its potential as a therapeutic target, particularly demonstrating a high binding affinity with staurosporine. Additionally, a high proportion of dendritic cells contributed to the formation of the GBM immune microenvironment.

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed the co-expression patterns and metabolic pathways between GA-MSCs and GBM, providing new insights into the molecular mechanisms of GBM progression. Targeting FLNC with staurosporine presents a promising therapeutic strategy for GBM. Aditionally, targeting the shared pathways of both may offer a valuable approach for treating malignant brain tumors.

GNE-317 Reverses MSN-Mediated Proneural-to-Mesenchymal Transition and Suppresses Chemoradiotherapy Resistance in Glioblastoma via PI3K/mTOR

Glioblastoma (GBM) resistance to chemoradiotherapy is a major factor contributing to poor treatment outcomes. This resistance markedly affects the effectiveness of surgery combined with chemoradiotherapy and leads to post-surgical tumor recurrence. Therefore, exploring the mechanisms underlying chemoradiotherapy resistance in GBM is crucial for understanding its progression and improving therapeutic options. This study found that moesin (MSN) acts as a key promotor of chemoradiotherapy resistance in glioma stem cells (GSCs), enhancing their proliferation and stemness maintenance. Mechanistically, MSN activates the downstream PI3K/mTOR signaling pathway, driving the proneural-to-mesenchymal transition (PMT) in GSCs. This process enhances the repair of DNA damage caused by radiotherapy (RT) and temozolomide (TMZ), thereby increasing the resistance of GSCs to chemoradiotherapy. Additionally, GNE-317, a small molecule drug capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier, specifically inhibits MSN and suppresses the activation of downstream PI3K/mTOR signaling. Importantly, the combination of GNE-317 with RT and TMZ exhibits a strong synergistic effect both in vivo and in vitro, achieving better efficacy compared to the traditional combination of RT and TMZ. This study not only advances understanding of the mechanisms underlying chemoradiotherapy resistance in GBM but also provides a promising new approach for enhancing treatment outcomes.

Malignant Cells Beyond the Tumor Core: The Non-Negligible Factor to Overcome the Refractory of Glioblastoma

BACKGROUND

Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most aggressive primary brain tumors in adults. Over 95% of GBM patients experience recurrence in the peritumoral brain tissue or distant regions, indicating the presence of critical factors in these areas that drive tumor recurrence. Current clinical treatments primarily focus on tumor cells from the tumor core (TC), while the role of neoplastic cells beyond the TC has been largely neglected.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive review of existing literature and studies on GBM, focusing on the identification and characterization of questionable cells (Q cells). Advanced imaging techniques, such as diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), and positron emission tomography (PET), were utilized to identify Q cells beyond the tumor core. We also analyzed the functional properties, cellular microenvironment, and physical characteristics of Q cells, as well as their implications for surgical resection.

RESULTS

Our review revealed that Q cells exhibit unique functional attributes, including enhanced invasiveness, metabolic adaptations, and resistance mechanisms. These cells reside in a distinct cellular microenvironment and are influenced by physical properties such as solid stress and stiffness. Advanced imaging techniques have improved the identification of Q cells, enabling more precise surgical resection. Targeting Q cells in therapeutic strategies could significantly reduce the risk of GBM recurrence.

CONCLUSION

The presence of Q cells in the peritumoral brain zone (PBZ) and beyond is a critical factor in GBM recurrence. Current treatments, which primarily target tumor cells in the TC, are insufficient to prevent recurrence due to the neglect of Q cells. Future research should focus on understanding the mechanisms influencing Q cells and developing targeted therapies to improve patient outcomes.

Unveiling the role of RNA methylation in glioma: Mechanisms, prognostic biomarkers, and therapeutic targets

Gliomas, the most prevalent malignant brain tumors in the central nervous system, are marked by rapid growth, high recurrence rates, and poor prognosis. Glioblastoma (GBM) stands out as the most aggressive subtype, characterized by significant heterogeneity. The etiology of gliomas remains elusive. RNA modifications, particularly reversible methylation, play a crucial role in regulating transcription and translation throughout the RNA lifecycle. Increasing evidence highlights the prevalence of RNA methylation in primary central nervous system malignancies, underscoring its pivotal role in glioma pathogenesis. This review focuses on recent findings regarding changes in RNA methylation expression and their effects on glioma development and progression, including N6-methyladenosine (m6A), 5-methylcytosine (m5C), N1-methyladenosine (m1A), and N7-methylguanosine (m7G). Given the extensive roles of RNA methylation in gliomas, the potential of RNA methylation-related regulators as prognostic markers and therapeutic targets was also explored, aiming to enhance clinical management and improve patient outcomes.

The role of mesenchymal stem cells in cancer and prospects for their use in cancer therapeutics

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are recruited by malignant tumor cells to the tumor microenvironment (TME) and play a crucial role in the initiation and progression of malignant tumors. This role encompasses immune evasion, promotion of angiogenesis, stimulation of cancer cell proliferation, correlation with cancer stem cells, multilineage differentiation within the TME, and development of treatment resistance. Simultaneously, extensive research is exploring the homing effect of MSCs and MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (MSCs-EVs) in tumors, aiming to design them as carriers for antitumor substances. These substances are targeted to deliver antitumor drugs to enhance drug efficacy while reducing drug toxicity. This paper provides a review of the supportive role of MSCs in tumor progression and the associated molecular mechanisms. Additionally, we summarize the latest therapeutic strategies involving engineered MSCs and MSCs-EVs in cancer treatment, including their utilization as carriers for gene therapeutic agents, chemotherapeutics, and oncolytic viruses. We also discuss the distribution and clearance of MSCs and MSCs-EVs upon entry into the body to elucidate the potential of targeted therapies based on MSCs and MSCs-EVs in cancer treatment, along with the challenges they face.

STAT3 drives the malignant progression of low-grade gliomas through modulating the expression of STAT1, FOXO1, and MYC

Low-grade glioma (LGG) is a prevalent and lethal primary brain malignancy, with most patients succumbing to recurrence and progression. The signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) family has long been implicated in tumor initiation and progression. However, a comprehensive evaluation of the expression status and overall function of STAT genes in LGG remains largely unreported. In this study, we investigated the association between the expression of STAT family genes and the progression of LGG. Through a comprehensive analysis that combined bioinformatics screening and validation assays, we determined that STAT1, STAT3, and STAT5A were upregulated and contributed to the malignant progression of LGG. Notably, our findings suggest that STAT3 is a critical prognostic marker that regulates the progression of LGG. STAT3 emerged as the most significant prognostic indicator governing the advancement of LGG. Additionally, our inquiry into the STAT3-binding proteins and differentially expressed-correlated genes (DEGs) revealed that STAT3 played a pivotal role in the progression of LGG by stimulating the expression of STAT1, FOXO1, and MYC. In summary, our recent study conducted a thorough analysis of the STAT family genes and revealed that directing therapeutic interventions towards STAT3 holds potential as a viable strategy for treating patients with LGG.