Biology of the subventricular zone in relation to gliomagenesis

There is recent compelling evidence that gliomas arise from neural stem cells residing in the lining of the lateral ventricles, known as the subventricular zone, that have undergone malignant transformation. This article reviews the operative elements, including cytoskeletal proteins, tumor suppressor genes, cell adhesion molecules, growth factors, transcription factors and developmental pathways that link the subventricular zone to gliomagenesis. It is hoped that with an improved understanding of the putative source of gliomas, new therapeutic strategies will be developed against such deadly tumors.