Blocking SET protein may sensitize glioblastoma to radiation
Researchers identified a protein called SET that glioblastoma cells use to suppress the enzyme PP2A, helping tumors resist treatment. Blocking SET or related proteins prevented tumor formation in preclinical models and made cancer cells more vulnerable to radiation. Human trials are needed to confirm safety and efficacy.
The research, published in Cancer Letters, centered on the enzyme PP2A, which typically governs cellular growth and stress responses. Glioblastoma cells deploy three distinct proteins—SET, ANP32A, and CIP2A—to disable this enzyme. By suppressing these blockers in cell and animal models, the team observed reduced tumor formation and heightened sensitivity to radiation.
The study also examined a currently licensed psychiatric medication that can boost PP2A activity, though researchers caution it is not suitable for brain cancer treatment outside of formal clinical trials. Funding came from the National Institutes of Health and the National Cancer Institute, with the work led by Dr. Arnab Chakravarti.
If human trials confirm safety, this approach could enhance the efficacy of existing radiation and chemotherapy, potentially extending survival or improving quality of life for glioblastoma patients without requiring entirely new toxic drugs. It may also inspire research into similar enzyme-restoration strategies for other treatment-resistant cancers. However, the path from preclinical findings to clinical practice is long, and outcomes remain uncertain.