These two recently published studies represent a breakthrough in understanding and leveraging the role of OLIG2 in Sonic Hedgehog medulloblastoma (SHH-MB), and this work could potentially be applied to other brain cancers as well.
In the first study, Desai et al identified OLIG2 as a key regulator of the transcription from quiescent to activated states in SOX2+ stem-like cells, which is critical for tumor growth. They showed that inhibiting OLIG2 with CT-179 effectively blocks this transition, reducing tumor formation and regrowth after therapy.
The second study by Li et al. looked at CT-179's mechanism of action, showing it disrupts the ability of OLIG2 to pair up and bind to DNA. Their research revealed that CT-179 promotes tumor cell differentiation and apoptosis, enhances radiation, and could be combined with CDK4/6 inhibitors to overcome treatment resistance.
Based on these findings, we hope to see further development of CT-179 for SHH-MB and other brain tumors!