The chemokine network, a newly discovered target in high grade gliomas

Chemokines are small cytokines, characterised by their ability to induce directional migration of cells by binding to chemokine receptors. They are known to play a role in tumour development, angiogenesis and metastasis. Interestingly, the chemokine network also contributes to the progression of gliomas, mainly by intensifying their characteristic invasive character. The main hurdle in treatment of these tumours is their infiltration of surrounding tissues, hampering complete surgical tumour removal. Standard postsurgical treatment with radio- and chemotherapy is of limited effect. Therefore drugs that target the chemokine system in high grade gliomas might fill the gap existing in the current approach. This review presents the current knowledge of the role of chemokine network in the development of the central nervous system, in brain physiology and the involvement in brain tumour progression. Finally, current studies exploring new compounds targeting the chemokine network in cancer patient are discussed.