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Updated: Jul 18, 2026
Evaluation of Biomarkers in Glioma by Immunohistochemistry on Paraffin-Embedded 3D Glioma Neurosphere Cultures
Published on: January 9, 2019
Histological classification and molecular genetics of meningiomas
Markus J Riemenschneider1, Arie Perry, Guido Reifenberger
1Department of Neuropathology, Heinrich-Heine-University, Duesseldorf, Germany.
Abstract:
Meningiomas account for up to 30% of all primary intracranial tumours. They are histologically classified according to the World Health Organization (WHO) classification of tumours of the nervous system. Most meningiomas are benign lesions of WHO grade I, whereas some meningioma variants correspond with WHO grades II and III and are associated with a higher risk of recurrence and shorter survival times. Mutations in the NF2 gene and loss of chromosome 22q are the most common genetic alterations associated with the initiation of meningiomas. With increase in tumour grade, additional progression-associated molecular aberrations can be found; however, most of the relevant genes are yet to be identified. High-throughput techniques of global genome and transcriptome analyses and new meningioma models provide increasing insight into meningioma biology and will help to identify common pathogenic pathways that may be targeted by new therapeutic approaches.
Insights
Meningiomas, common brain tumors, are graded by WHO. Understanding their genetic basis, like NF2 mutations, is key for developing targeted therapies for aggressive forms.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Genetics
- Tumor Biology
Background:
- Meningiomas represent up to 30% of primary intracranial tumors.
- Tumor grade (WHO I, II, III) correlates with recurrence risk and survival.
- NF2 gene mutations and 22q loss are primary drivers, but other progression genes remain unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the molecular underpinnings of meningioma initiation and progression.
- To identify novel therapeutic targets for meningioma treatment.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing high-throughput genome and transcriptome analyses.
- Employing novel meningioma models for biological insights.
Main Results:
- Established NF2 mutations and 22q loss as common initiating events.
- Identified potential progression-associated molecular aberrations in higher-grade tumors.
Conclusions:
- Further research into meningioma genetics is crucial for therapeutic advancements.
- New models and analyses offer insights into pathogenic pathways for targeted therapies.
