Therapeutic and prognostic values of ferroptosis signature in glioblastoma

Abstract

Ferroptosis is a regulated cell death process that results in decreased tumor growth and aggressiveness when targeted in various cancer cells. Studying the impact of ferroptosis in glioblastoma (GBM) will provide important knowledge about tumor biology and potential treatment strategies. The high metabolic activity resulting in ROS production, iron content and active lipid metabolism of glioblastoma cells make them particularly susceptible to ferroptosis. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals the molecular signature of GBM and its tumor microenvironment, introducing ferroptosis-related biomarkers pathways and drug resistance mechanisms to enhance treatment outcomes for GBM patients. The relationship between ferroptosis and the immune landscape in GBM is complex and can have either positive or negative effects. These effects can be identified through single-cell RNA sequencing to develop targeted chemo-, radio- and immuno- therapies against glioma stem cells and tumor-supportive immune cells. Additionally, the implication of oncolytic virotherapy in combination with ferroptosis induction can lead to improved treatment of GBM in a clinical setting.