We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. To learn more, click here. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies. Cookie Policy.

Features Partner Sites Information LinkXpress hp
Sign In
Advertise with Us
Sekisui Diagnostics

Download Mobile App




Manipulating the Ubiquitination Process May Overcome Glioblastoma Resistance

By LabMedica International staff writers
Posted on 09 Feb 2012
A complex molecular pathway protects glioblastoma, an aggressive and lethal brain cancer, from treatment based on drugs that target the TNF (tumor necrosis factor)-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) apoptotic pathway.

The TRAIL apoptotic pathway has emerged as a therapeutic target for the treatment of cancer. More...
However, clinical trials have proven that the vast majority of human cancers are resistant to this approach. In a study seeking ways to overcome this resistance, investigators at Emory University (Philadelphia, PA, USA) worked with tumor-initiating cells isolated from glioblastomas surgically removed from patients.

They reported in the January 24, 2012 online edition of the journal Cancer Discovery that A20 E3 (tumor necrosis factor, alpha-induced protein 3 or TNFAIP3) ligase was highly expressed in these cells along with receptor interacting protein 1 (RIP1), and the apoptotic protein caspase-8. Together, these proteins formed a potent signaling complex.

When TRAIL interacted with this complex, the A20 E3 ligase triggered ubiquitination and destruction of RIP1, which interfered with activation of caspase-8 and prevented caspase-8-initiated apoptosis.

These results identify A20 E3 ligase as a therapeutic target whose inhibition can overcome TRAIL resistance in glioblastoma. “Scientists in this field have been hoping to treat this cancer with this new type of apoptosis pathway-targeted therapeutic drug, and this new information may provide a path forward,” said senior author Dr. Chunhai Hao, professor of neuropathology at Emory University.

“Previous research in this area has been unable to overcome the obstacle created by resistance,” said Dr. Hao. “This research shows one of the mechanisms for how we can manipulate the ubiquitination process to overcome the resistance to the apoptosis-targeted cancer therapies. Understanding the mechanisms of resistance is vital to developing therapies going forward.”

Related Links:
Emory University




Platinum Member
Automated Coagulation Analyzer
Hemolumi H6
Gold Member
Blood-Based Protein Biomarker Solution for Alzheimer's Disease
BG-DTi2000.
Automatic CLIA Analyzer
Shine i6000
All-in-One Molecular System
AIO M160
Read the full article by registering today, it's FREE! It's Free!
Register now for FREE to LabMedica.com and get access to news and events that shape the world of Clinical Laboratory Medicine.
  • Free digital version edition of LabMedica International sent by email on regular basis
  • Free print version of LabMedica International magazine (available only outside USA and Canada).
  • Free and unlimited access to back issues of LabMedica International in digital format
  • Free LabMedica International Newsletter sent every week containing the latest news
  • Free breaking news sent via email
  • Free access to Events Calendar
  • Free access to LinkXpress new product services
  • REGISTRATION IS FREE AND EASY!
Click here to Register








Channels

Clinical Chemistry

view channel
Image Credit: 123RF

Screening After Pneumococcal Disease May Reveal Undiagnosed Blood Cancer or Immune Disorders

Severe pneumococcal disease requiring hospitalization often presents as pneumonia, particularly in older adults and people with cancer or compromised immune function. Because M protein testing and antibody... Read more

Microbiology

view channel
Image Credit: 123RF

FDA-Cleared Multiplex PCR Test Detects 13 Respiratory Pathogens in a Single Sample

Respiratory tract infections can be difficult to distinguish at presentation because many cause overlapping, nonspecific symptoms and are initially grouped as influenza-like illnesses. Causes span a range... Read more

Technology

view channel
Image: The laser-based photoacoustic spectroscopy setup consists of a Mid-IR laser equipped with three QCL modules covering wavelengths from 5.6 μm to 12.9 μm, two silver coated mirrors (SCM), a dichroic mirror (DM) with a transmittance of 90%, a thermal power sensor head (PM) to monitor the output laser power, a mechanical chopper (MC) for frequency modulation and a CEPAS-detector with a self-designed swab holder (SH). (Credit: Graunke, T., Scholz, T., Pieniak, M. et al. Scientific Reports (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-026-68298-9)

Laser-Based Swab Analysis Shows Promise for Detecting Disease-Linked Odor Patterns

Disease-related changes in volatile organic compounds can alter body odor, producing measurable patterns in exhaled breath and bodily fluids. Current analytical methods can be complex, time-consuming,... Read more

Industry

view channel
Image

Collaboration Combines AI Cognitive Assessment and RNA Blood Testing for Earlier Alzheimer’s Detection

Alzheimer’s disease is often identified only after substantial neurodegeneration, partly because current diagnostic pathways are fragmented and difficult to scale. As treatment shifts toward earlier intervention,... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2026 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.