The Role of ZEB2 Expression in Pediatric and Adult Glioblastomas

Background/Aim: Both pediatric glioblastoma (pGB) and adult glioblastoma (aGB) are clinically devastating, and are known to have different molecular pathogenesis. Here, we focused on the role of ZEB2 in pGB and aGB. Materials and Methods: Following transfection with ZEB2 siRNA into pGB cells (KNS42) and aGB cells (U87 and U373), cell proliferation, migration and invasion, and cell cycle progression were evaluated. Results: Targeted inhibition of ZEB2 induced up-regulation of E-cadherin expression and down-regulation of vimentin expression. Furthermore, it reduced invasion and migration of both pGB and aGB cells. Interestingly, in pGB cells, but not in aGB cells, silencing of ZEB2 reduced cell proliferation and viability, and affected the cell cycle progression of tumor cells. Conclusion: Inhibition of ZEB2 altered the mesenchymal features and reduced the migration and invasive ability of both pGB and aGB cells. ZEB2 effects were different in pGB and aGB cells regarding proliferation and cell cycle progression, suggesting that different underlying molecular mechanisms drive progression in these two types of tumors.

Automated summary

Inhibition of ZEB2 reduces invasion and migration of both pediatric and adult glioblastoma cells, while also decreasing proliferation and affecting cell cycle progression in pediatric glioblastoma cells specifically. This suggests that ZEB2 has different effects in different types of glioblastoma, indicating distinct underlying molecular mechanisms driving tumor progression.