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Brain tumor stem cells as therapeutic targets in models of glioma
Dan Richard Laks1, Koppany Visnyei, Harley Ian Kornblum
1Intellectual and Developmental Disability Research Center, UCLA Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Abstract:
At this time, brain tumor stem cells remain a controversial hypothesis while malignant brain tumors continue to present a dire prognosis of severe morbidity and mortality. Yet, brain tumor stem cells may represent an essential cellular target for glioma therapy as they are postulated to be the tumorigenic cells responsible for recurrence. Targeting oncogenic pathways that are essential to the survival and growth of brain tumor stem cells represents a promising area for developing therapeutics. However, due to the multiple oncogenic pathways involved in glioma, it is necessary to determine which pathways are the essential targets for therapy. Furthermore, research still needs to comprehend the morphogenic processes of cell populations involved in tumor formation. Here, we review research and discuss perspectives on models of glioma in order to delineate the current issues in defining brain tumor stem cells as therapeutic targets in models of glioma.
Insights
Brain tumor stem cells are a controversial hypothesis but may be key targets for glioma therapy. Further research is needed to identify essential pathways and understand tumor formation for effective treatment.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Cancer Stem Cell Biology
- Glioma Research
Background:
- Malignant brain tumors, particularly gliomas, have a poor prognosis with high morbidity and mortality.
- Brain tumor stem cells (BTSCs) are hypothesized to drive tumor recurrence and pose a significant challenge in glioma therapy.
- Understanding BTSCs is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies against gliomas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current research on brain tumor stem cells in glioma models.
- To discuss the challenges in defining BTSCs as viable therapeutic targets.
- To explore perspectives on glioma models for studying BTSCs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing research on glioma and brain tumor stem cells.
- Discussion of various glioma models used in preclinical research.
- Analysis of the role of BTSCs in tumor formation and recurrence.
Main Results:
- The concept of brain tumor stem cells remains controversial despite their potential role in glioma recurrence.
- Multiple oncogenic pathways are involved in glioma, necessitating identification of essential therapeutic targets.
- Current understanding of the morphogenic processes in tumor formation requires further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Brain tumor stem cells represent a critical, yet controversial, target for novel glioma therapies.
- Identifying essential oncogenic pathways within BTSCs is paramount for therapeutic development.
- Further research into glioma models is essential to define BTSCs as effective therapeutic targets.
