Neural Regeneration Research ›› 2026, Vol. 21 ›› Issue (7): 2812-2813.doi: 10.4103/NRR.NRR-D-25-00288

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Cholinergic pathways in neural stem cell regulation and glioblastoma progression: Shared origins and mechanisms

Moawiah M. Naffaa*   

  1. Department of Psychology and Neuroscience, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
  • Online:2026-07-15 Published:2025-10-20
  • Contact: Moawiah M. Naffaa, PhD, Moawiah.naffaa@duke.edu.

Abstract: Neural stem cells (NSCs) and glioblastoma stem cells (GSCs) share a complex regulatory landscape in which cholinergic signaling plays a pivotal role in both neural development and tumor progression. While acetylcholine (ACh) regulates NSC quiescence and differentiation within neurogenic niches, glioblastoma cells exploit these pathways to enhance their adaptability and invasiveness. The involvement of muscarinic (M3) and nicotinic (α7) receptors in both cell types suggests that glioblastoma retains neural progenitor-like traits, contributing to its plasticity and resilience. This article explores the shared cholinergic mechanisms between NSCs and GSCs, highlighting their role in both neural development and glioblastoma progression.