Molecular profiling of pediatric brain tumors: insight into biology and treatment

Recent history has witnessed unparalleled advances in our understanding of tumor biology, owing in large part to the publication of the human genome project. Paired with improvements in microarray technologies, the combination of genetic and expression profiles provides a unique opportunity to further enhance our understanding of the underlying mechanisms that drive tumor growth. Thus, integrated analysis of identified molecular changes with clinical and histologic data may further delineate a new risk stratification system for pediatric brain tumors, allowing more patient-tailored therapy and molecular-based therapeutic interventions.