Clipping the Wings of Glioblastoma: Modulation of WNT as a Novel Therapeutic Strategy

J Neuropathol Exp Neurol. 2016 May;75(5):388-96. doi: 10.1093/jnen/nlw013. Epub 2016 Mar 15.

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.

Keywords: Glioma; Inhibitors; Noncanonical WNT signaling; Prognostic markers; Small molecules; WNT.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / administration & dosage
  • Antineoplastic Agents / metabolism*
  • Brain Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Brain Neoplasms / metabolism*
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods
  • Drug Delivery Systems / trends
  • Glioblastoma / drug therapy*
  • Glioblastoma / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Neoplastic Stem Cells / drug effects
  • Neoplastic Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Wnt Signaling Pathway / drug effects
  • Wnt Signaling Pathway / physiology*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents