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Updated: May 2, 2026
Evaluation of Biomarkers in Glioma by Immunohistochemistry on Paraffin-Embedded 3D Glioma Neurosphere Cultures
Published on: January 9, 2019
Abstract:
Malignant gliomas, aggressive and highly invasive tumors with a great number of genetic and epigenetic alterations in genes involved in the cell cycle regulation, the apoptotic pathways, cell invasion ability, and angiogenesis, are considered to be among the deadliest of human cancers. The role of epigenetic mechanisms in the pathogenesis of malignant transformation despite recent progress is not yet clear elucidated and remains under intensive study. This review describes the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation of gene expression, including post-translational modification of histones, DNA methylation in the promoter regions, and microRNA regulation. The genetic and epigenetic factors driving the pathogenesis of gliomas in their possible mutual influence and the potential epigenetic targets that can be used in the development of diagnostics and new therapeutic approaches are also discussed.
Insights
Malignant gliomas are deadly brain cancers driven by genetic and epigenetic changes. Understanding epigenetic regulation offers new diagnostic and therapeutic targets for these aggressive tumors.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Genetics
Context:
- Malignant gliomas are aggressive, invasive brain tumors with complex genetic and epigenetic alterations.
- Despite advances, the precise role of epigenetic mechanisms in glioma pathogenesis remains under investigation.
Purpose:
- To review the mechanisms of epigenetic regulation in gene expression relevant to gliomas.
- To discuss the interplay between genetic and epigenetic factors in glioma development.
- To highlight potential epigenetic targets for glioma diagnostics and therapeutics.
Summary:
- Epigenetic regulation involves histone modifications, DNA methylation, and microRNA activity.
- These mechanisms influence critical cellular processes like cell cycle control, apoptosis, invasion, and angiogenesis.
- The review explores how genetic and epigenetic factors interact to drive glioma progression.
Impact:
- Elucidating epigenetic roles can improve understanding of malignant transformation in gliomas.
- Identification of epigenetic targets may lead to novel diagnostic biomarkers.
- This knowledge can pave the way for developing innovative therapeutic strategies for glioma patients.
