DOI
https://doi.org/10.25772/GJC4-C658
Defense Date
2006
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Anatomy & Neurobiology
First Advisor
Dr. William C. Broaddus
Abstract
Glioblastomas are among the most devastating of human cancers with a median survival of only 9-12 months. This type of brain tumor is incurable, largely due its remarkable proliferative capacity and resistance to current treatments. High levels of the Wilms' Tumor 1 (WTI) gene have been identified in glioblastomas, suggesting an oncogenic function. Moreover, known WT1 target genes have been implicated in resistance to radiation. To determine the role of WT1 in radiation resistance, two glioblastoma cell lines expressing WT1 were treated with siRNAs to silence this gene. Confirmation of WT1 knockdown was achieved through real-time PCR and Western blot. After treatment with siRNA, cells were irradiated, and cell survival was assessed using a luminescent ATP assay and clonogenic survival assay. We demonstrate that treatment with WT1 siRNA increased the radiation sensitivity in both cell lines. These findings suggest that WT1 functions to protect glioblastoma cells from radiation-induced death.
Rights
© The Author
Is Part Of
VCU University Archives
Is Part Of
VCU Theses and Dissertations
Date of Submission
June 2008