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Updated: Jul 9, 2026
Quantitative Immunohistochemistry of the Cellular Microenvironment in Patient Glioblastoma Resections
Published on: July 31, 2017
Epigenetic aberrations in malignant gliomas: an open door leading to better understanding and treatment
Ramon Martinez1, Gabriele Schackert
1Department of Neurosurgery, University of Dresden, Dresden, Germany. ramon.martinez@gmx.net
Abstract:
Malignant gliomas and specially glioblastoma multiforme are the most frequent and devastating brain tumors in adults. Intensive molecular and cytogenetical studies have revealed a wide variety of deregulated genes implicated in cell cycles, DNA repair, apoptosis, cell migration, invasion and angiogenesis with little translational success. An increasing number of reports investigating epigenetic injuries in malignant gliomas have been recently published, although the panorama of CpG island aberrant hypermethylation, histone modification and chromatin states in these lethal tumors is only partially devised. In the present analysis, we discuss the magnitude and significance of epigenetic lesions in the pathogenesis and mechanisms of progression of malignant gliomas as well as their influence on patient survival. The new venue of epigenetic research provides tools for the identification of genes differentially methylated that may be implicated in tumorigenesis and furthermore, epigenetics-based drugs may constitute a promising alternative resource of therapy for this, to the moment, incurable malignancy.
Insights
Epigenetic alterations play a significant role in malignant glioma development and progression. Understanding these epigenetic changes offers new therapeutic strategies for brain tumors.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Cancer epigenetics
- Molecular pathology
Background:
- Malignant gliomas, particularly glioblastoma multiforme, are aggressive adult brain tumors with poor outcomes.
- Extensive molecular studies identified numerous genetic alterations but yielded limited therapeutic success.
- Epigenetic modifications are increasingly recognized as crucial in glioma pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the significance of epigenetic lesions in malignant glioma development and progression.
- To explore the impact of epigenetic changes on patient survival.
- To highlight the potential of epigenetics in identifying novel therapeutic targets.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive analysis of existing literature on epigenetic alterations in malignant gliomas.
- Discussion of aberrant CpG island hypermethylation, histone modifications, and chromatin remodeling.
- Synthesis of findings regarding the role of epigenetics in glioma pathogenesis and progression.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic deregulation, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, is prevalent in malignant gliomas.
- These epigenetic changes significantly influence tumor initiation, progression, and patient prognosis.
- Aberrant methylation patterns can identify genes critical for tumorigenesis.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic lesions are central to the pathogenesis and progression of malignant gliomas.
- Epigenetic research provides a promising avenue for discovering new therapeutic strategies.
- Epigenetics-based drugs may offer a novel treatment option for glioblastoma multiforme.
