Epigenetic Modulation of Chemoresistant Glioblastomas by DNA Aptamers

• Grant number: 25/00963-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: May 01, 2025
• End date: April 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Genetics - Human and Medical Genetics
• Principal Investigator: Claudiana Lameu
• Grantee: Matheus Ramos de Oliveira Queiroz
• Host Institution: Instituto de Química (IQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 23/17147-6 - Treatment of chemoresistant human glioblastoma cells with DNA aptamers for the development of new adjuvant therapies, AP.R

Abstract

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is one of the most aggressive and treatment-resistant brain tumors, with a median survival of only 15 months after diagnosis. This project aims to investigate the potential of DNA aptamers, in combination with standard chemotherapy (temozolomide - TMZ) to modulate epigenetic pathways in GBM. The aptamer Apt9, previously characterized as having high affinity for GBM tumor stem cells, will be nanostructured to evaluate its impact on DNA methylation, histone modifications, and the expression of microRNAs related to tumor resistance. Using GBM cell lines in in vitro experiments, we hope to reveal new epigenetic biomarkers that can predict response to treatment, offering insights that can support the development of new therapeutic approaches that are more effective or aimed at enhancing the efficacy of interventions against this neoplasm.