The role of tachykinins via NK1 receptors in progression of human gliomas

In recent years, it has become evident that astrocytes harbor functional re ceptors to many neurotransmitters, including substance P (SP), an undecapep tide belonging to the tachykinin family of neuropeptides. SP is an importan t stimulus fur reactive astrocytes in CNS development, infection and injury , and provides a link for bi-directional interactions between glial cells a nd neurons. In brain tumors, malignant glial cells originating from astrocy tes, via NK, receptors, are triggered by tachykinins, SP and neurokinin A ( NKA), to release soluble mediators, in particular cytokines, and increase t heir proliferative rate. In this paper, we review the results obtained in i pl vitro and in vivo studies on the role of SP as an inducer of human gliom a responses that may be relevant for tumor progression. In addition, the pr esence of SP and the expression of NK1 receptors in glioma explants have be en examined. We discuss the possible use of selective NK1 receptor antagoni sts as a therapeutic approach to treat malignant gliomas. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.