AATF supports proliferation of glioblastoma cells by sustaining mitochondrial respiration through an NRF-1-dependent mechanism [ChIP-seq]

However, emerging evidence suggests a more complex situation with many tumours exhibiting a pronounced dependence on mitochondrial respiration through oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) for their development and maintenance. In line with this, numerous studies have reported an upregulation of mitochondrial genes and OXPHOS components across multiple cancer types.

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most frequent and malignant brain tumour in adults, characterized by rapid proliferation, resistance to therapy and ability to recur. In addition to a profound genetic and molecular heterogeneity, GBM also exhibits strong metabolic heterogeneity with different grade of dependence from mitochondrial activity. Notably, the transcription factor Nuclear Respiratory Factor 1 (NRF-1), a key regulator of OXPHOS gene expression and mitochondrial functions, has recently been linked to GBM progression and poor prognosis.