Glial cell-line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) family of ligands confer chemoresistance in a ligand-specific fashion in malignant gliomas.

Glial cell-line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is a neurotrophic factor known to promote neuronal survival of dopaminergic neurons in the embryonic midbrain as well as contribute to carcinogenesis in many cancers. Its ubiquitous presence in the central nervous system suggests a role in the mitogenesis of high-grade astrocytoma. GDNF is overexpressed in glioblastoma cell lines and human gliomas.

Higher glioblastoma tumour burden reduces efficacy of chemotherapeutic agents: in vitro evidence.

Introduction: Glioblastoma is the most common primary brain tumour with poor overall survival. Surgical resection followed by radiation and chemotherapy is the mainstay of treatment. The role of aggressive resection in improving overall survival remains contentious, although there is evolving data to suggest this trend.