Temozolomide resistance in glioblastoma multiforme

摘要

Abstract Temozolomide (TMZ) is an oral alkylating agent used to treat glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and astrocytomas. However, at least 50% of {TMZ} treated patients do not respond to TMZ. This is due primarily to the over-expression of O6-methylguanine methyltransferase (MGMT) and/or lack of a {DNA} repair pathway in {GBM} cells. Multiple {GBM} cell lines are known to contain {TMZ} resistant cells and several acquired {TMZ} resistant {GBM} cell lines have been developed for use in experiments designed to define the mechanism of {TMZ} resistance and the testing of potential therapeutics. However, the characteristics of intrinsic and adaptive {TMZ} resistant {GBM} cells have not been systemically compared. This article reviews the characteristics and mechanisms of {TMZ} resistance in natural and adapted {TMZ} resistant {GBM} cell lines. It also summarizes potential treatment options for {TMZ} resistant GBMs.