Exploring the Influence of Sialic Acid on Drug Resistance in Glioma: A Focus on ABCB1 and ABCC1 Transporter Genes Expression

Abstract

Background: Glioma, the predominant type of tumor in the central nervous system (CNS), is commonly treated with temozolomide chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. However, resistance to chemotherapy can sometimes lead to treatment failure and cancer recurrence. To improve treatment strategies for glioma, it is important to understand the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the molecular aspects that contribute to drug resistance. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the effects of sialic acid on drug resistance development in temozolomide-treated cells by analyzing the expression patterns of ABCB1 and ABCC1 genes, known for their role in drug resistance mechanisms. Methods: This study examined the effects of temozolomide, sialic acid, and the combination of both on cell viability and apoptosis. IC50 and EC50 values were used to measure treatment effectiveness, and the expression of ABCB1 and ABCC1 genes was assessed by real-time PCR in different treatment groups. Results: Temozolomide and sialic acid both had effects on cell viability, morphology, and the expression of ABCB1 and ABCC1 genes. These alterations may be associated with the development of drug resistance in cancer cells, providing insight into the underlying mechanisms. Conclusions: The study suggests that sialic acid promotes cancer progression and reduces the effectiveness of anticancer drugs. Therefore, targeting sialic acid or its production and using combination drugs could be a promising strategy to counter its negative impact on treatment outcomes.