Activation of expression of genes coding for extracellular matrix proteins in Tat-producing glioblastoma cells

A study was done on the activation of expression of genes coding for extracellular matrix proteins in Tat-producing glioblastoma cells. It was shown that the presence of HIV-1 regulatory protein in Tat is associated with a significant induction in the expression of certain protein components of the extracellular matrix in glial-derived cells. The induction is also seen at the level of protein synthesis and the presence of Tat results in increased transcription of fibronectin and alpha1 type 1 collagen promoters.