Abstract
Recent research has identified an important role for a cystine–glutamate antiporter (system Xc) in the biology of malignant brain tumors. This transporter is effectively inhibited by sulfasalazine, a drug widely used to treat a number of chronic inflammatory conditions such as Crohn’s disease. Preclinical data show that sulfasalazine is an effective inhibitor of tumor growth and tumor-associated seizures. These studies suggest that the cystine–glutamate antiporter is a valuable drug target for which tumor-specific drugs can be generated. In the meantime, sulfasalazine may be considered as adjuvant treatment for malignant gliomas.