Clipping the wings of glioblastoma: modulation of WNT as a novel therapeutic strategy

AK Suwala, A Hanaford, UD Kahlert… - … of Neuropathology & …, 2016 - academic.oup.com
Journal of Neuropathology & Experimental Neurology, 2016academic.oup.com
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant brain tumor and has a dismal prognosis. Aberrant
WNT signaling is known to promote glioma cell growth and dissemination and resistance to
conventional radio-and chemotherapy. Moreover, a population of cancer stem-like cells that
promote glioma growth and recurrence are strongly dependent on WNT signaling. Here, we
discuss the role and mechanisms of aberrant canonical and noncanonical WNT signaling in
GBM. We present current clinical approaches aimed at modulating WNT activity and …
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most malignant brain tumor and has a dismal prognosis. Aberrant WNT signaling is known to promote glioma cell growth and dissemination and resistance to conventional radio- and chemotherapy. Moreover, a population of cancer stem-like cells that promote glioma growth and recurrence are strongly dependent on WNT signaling. Here, we discuss the role and mechanisms of aberrant canonical and noncanonical WNT signaling in GBM. We present current clinical approaches aimed at modulating WNT activity and evaluate their clinical perspective as a novel treatment option for GBM.
Oxford University Press