Viability screen on pediatric low grade glioma cell lines unveils a novel anti-cancer drug of the steroid biosynthesis inhibitor family

► Steroid biosynthesis and/or their signaling pathways promote the growth of gliomas. ► The drug DK16 functions as an inhibitor of the enzyme 17b-hydroxysteriod dehydrogenase 3. ► DK16 modulates several oncogenic mediators causing a decrease in cell viability, proliferation and migration/invasion.►DK16 induces growth arrest and apoptosis. ► DK16 demonstrates potent anti-neoplastic properties in the treatment of pediatric low grade gliomas.