Characterizing MTRNR2L1 as a Novel Pseudogene Associated with Glioblastoma Cell Survival 2258390

R Roberto Aguilar (Western Reserve Academy) A Alida Karsten (Western Reserve Academy) G Gabrielle Boykin (Western Reserve Academy) B Ben Ross (Western Reserve Academy)

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is an aggressive and treatment-resistant brain tumor with limited understanding of the regulatory mechanisms that promote tumor persistence. The pseudogene MTRNR2L1 has been reported to be upregulated in several cancers, but its function in glioblastoma remains unknown. This study aims to characterize MTRNR2L1 expression in GBM and determine whether it contributes to tumor cell survival and growth. Methods RNA was extracted from U87-MG glioblastoma cells, and MTRNR2L1 expression was confirmed through cDNA synthesis and quantitative PCR. A gene knockout was designed using CRISPR technology, and ongoing experiments are assessing how MTRNR2L1 loss affects cell viability and proliferation compared with wild-type controls. Results qPCR analysis confirmed MTRNR2L1 expression in U87-MG glioblastoma cells. Preliminary knockout studies suggest that loss of MTRNR2L1 may reduce glioblastoma cell proliferation and survival. Additional validation is underway to clarify its role in regulating tumor cell behavior. Conclusion MTRNR2L1 is a previously uncharacterized pseudogene expressed in glioblastoma that may influence tumor growth and cell survival. Functional characterization of this gene will help clarify its contribution to cancer-associated pseudogene networks and may reveal new targets for future glioblastoma research. Funding Source n/a Topic Categories Translational and Interventional Immunology (TI)

Article Details

Volume / Issue Vol. 215, Issue Supplement_1
Published August 01, 2026
ISSN 0022-1767
Publisher American Association of Immunologists

Authors (4)

R

Roberto Aguilar

Western Reserve Academy

A

Alida Karsten

Western Reserve Academy

G

Gabrielle Boykin

Western Reserve Academy

B

Ben Ross

Western Reserve Academy