Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are conservative and ubiquitous proteins that are expressed both in prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms and play an important role in cellular homeostasis, including the regulation of proteostasis, apoptosis, autophagy, maintenance of signal pathways, protection from various stresses (e.g., hypoxia, ionizing radiation, etc.). Therefore, HSPs are highly expressed in tumor cells, including malignant brain tumors, where they also associate with cancer cell invasion, metastasis, and resistance to radiochemotherapy. In the current review, we aimed to assess the diagnostic and prognostic values of HSPs expression in CNS malignancies as well as the novel treatment approaches to modulate the chaperone levels through the application of inhibitors (as monotherapy or in combination with other treatment modalities). Indeed, for several proteins (i.e., HSP10, HSPB1, DNAJC10, HSPA7, HSP90), a direct correlation between the protein level expression and poor overall survival prognosis for patients was demonstrated that provides a possibility to employ them as prognostic markers in neuro-oncology. Although small molecular inhibitors for HSPs, particularly for HSP27, HSP70, and HSP90 families, were studied in various solid and hematological malignancies demonstrating therapeutic potential, still their potential was not yet fully explored in CNS tumors. Some newly synthesized agents (e.g., HSP40/DNAJ inhibitors) have not yet been evaluated in GBM. Nevertheless, reported preclinical studies provide evidence and rationale for the application of HSPs inhibitors for targeting brain tumors.

Purpose: The reconstruction of dura matter is a challenging problem for neurosurgeons. A number of materials for dural reconstruction have recently been developed, but some of them have poor biocompatibility, poor mechanical properties, and adverse effects. Bovine parietal peritoneum is a promising natural material for regenerative medicine and reconstructive surgery. In this study, we conducted an in vivo evaluation of the safety and efficacy of using decellularized bovine peritoneum membranes (BPMs) as natural dural substitutes in a rabbit model.Methods: The dural defects in mature New Zealand rabbits were studied. A BPM was sutured on the dural defect area of each animal. Autologous periosteum and collagen membranes (Lyoplant®) were used to facilitate a comparison with the BPMs. ELISA, histomorphological analysis, and hematological analysis were carried out to examine the safety and efficacy of using BPMs as dural substitutes.Results: Our results showed that the BPMs demonstrated a deterioration rate that is suitable for gathering newly formed meningothelial tissue. The thickness and density of BPM fibers prevents resorption in the first few days after use as a plastic material, and the regeneration of the dura mater does not occur at an accelerated pace, meaning that the gradual formation of fibrous tissue prevents adhesion to the brain surface. It was observed that the BPM can integrate with the adjacent tissue to repair dural defects. Moreover, the transplantation of BPMs did not cause significant adverse effects or immunological responses, indicating the safety and good biocompatibility of the BPM.Conclusion: Thus, our in vivo study in a rabbit model showed that decellularized BPMs may represent a biocompatible natural material that can be used in cases requiring dura matter repair without significant adverse effects.