Single-cell and spatial transcriptome analyses reveal MAZ(+) NPC-like clusters as key role contributing to glioma recurrence and drug resistance

NPC-like cluster is prevalent in recurrent and drug-resistant gliomas. MAZ transcription factors are critical regulators that promote the development of drug resistance in NPC-like clusters by enhancing the capacity of DNA repair and stemness. Patients with high proportions of MAZ( +)_NPC-like clusters have poor TMZ sensitivity and prognosis. MAZ enhances stemness and drug resistance in glioma cells by upregulating FOXM1 expression. The combination of paclitaxel and paclitaxel is a promising therapeutic strategy for treating gliomas and overcoming drug resistance.