Distinct spatial N-glycan profiles reveal glioblastoma-specific signatures

Abstract

This study explored the complex interactions between glycosylation patterns, tumour biology, and therapeutic responses to temozolomide (TMZ) in human malignant glioma, specifically CNS WHO grade 3 oligodendroglioma (ODG) and glioblastoma (GB). Using spatial imaging of N-glycans in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue sections via MALDI-MSI, we analysed the N-glycome in primary and recurrent GB tissues and orthotopic xenografts of patient-derived brain tumour-initiating cells (BTIC) sensitive or resistant to TMZ. We identified unique N-glycosylation profiles, with nontumor brain (NTB) and ODG showing higher levels of bisecting and tri-antennary structures, while GB exhibited more tetra-antennary and sialylated N-glycans. Distinctive sialylation patterns were observed, with specific α2,6 and α2,3 isomeric linkages significantly altered in GB. Moreover, comparative analysis of primary and recurrent GB tissues revealed elevated high mannose N-glycans in primary GB and fucosylated bi- and tri-antennary N-glycans in recurrent GB tissues. Next, in the orthotopic xenografts of TMZ-sensitive and TMZ-resistant patient brain tumour initiating cells (BTIC), we identified potential N-glycan markers for TMZ treatment response and resistance. Finally, we found significantly altered expression of genes involved in N-glycan biosynthesis in malignant glioma, highlighting the crucial role of N-glycans in glioma and therapy resistance. This study lays the foundation for developing glycosylation-based diagnostic biomarkers and targeted therapies, potentially improving clinical outcomes for GB patients. © 2025 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.