AP-2α decreases TMZ resistance of recurrent GBM by downregulating MGMT expression and improving DNA damage

AP-2α expression negatively correlates with the expression of MGMT in glioma samples.

• AP-2α can directly bind to the promoter of the MGMT gene and suppress its transcription.
• In TMZ-resistant glioma cells, AP-2α downregulates MGMT expression.
• TMZ treatment decreases AP-2α expression while increasing MGMT expression.
• Extended TMZ treatment and higher TMZ concentrations can reverse the effects of AP-2α on MGMT.
• Retinoic acid activates AP-2α expression in recurrent glioma cells through specific receptor interactions.
• Both retinoic acid and TMZ can slow tumor growth and extend survival in an intracranial glioma mouse model.

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