Targeting Cholinergic Signaling to Overcome Radiation Resistance in Gliomas
Gliomas, a type of brain tumors that are difficult to treat, form in parts of the brain rich in acetylcholine (ACh). ACh works through specific receptors called muscarinic receptors (mAChRs), and one of them, M3, is found in higher levels in gliomas and is associated with poor outcomes in patients. We're looking at mAChRs and their role in the growth of gliomas, specifically in a phenomenon where some cells become more aggressive after radiation treatment. This subset of cells are called radiation-resistant persister cells (RTPs). We want to understand why these RTPs cells form and if we can make them more sensitive to radiation with treatments targeting mAChRs. We will test this using cell lines, mice, and tissue samples from patients to connect this work to real-life outcomes and potentially provide a personalized way to deal with gliomas in the future.
