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Updated: Dec 29, 2025
Coculture Assays to Study Macrophage and Microglia Stimulation of Glioblastoma Invasion
Published on: October 20, 2016
Role of Infiltrating Microglia/Macrophages in Glioma
Myriam Catalano1, Giuseppina D'Alessandro1,2, Flavia Trettel1
1Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
Abstract:
In this chapter we describe the state of the art knowledge of the role played by myeloid cells in promoting and supporting the growth and the invasive properties of a deadly brain tumor, glioblastoma. We provide a review of the works describing the intercellular communication among glioma and associated microglia/macrophage cells (GAMs) using in vitro cellular models derived from mice, rats and human patients and in vivo animal models using syngeneic or xenogeneic experimental systems. Special emphasis will be given to 1) the timing alteration of brain microenvironment under the influence of glioma, 2) the bidirectional communication among tumor and GAMs, 3) possible approaches to interfere with or to guide these interactions, with the aim to identify molecular and cellular targets which could revert or delay the vicious cycle that favors tumor biology.
Insights
Myeloid cells fuel glioblastoma growth and invasion by altering the brain microenvironment. Understanding this communication offers targets to disrupt the tumor
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Glioblastoma is an aggressive brain tumor characterized by rapid growth and invasion.
- Myeloid cells, including microglia and macrophages, are key components of the tumor microenvironment.
- Intercellular communication between glioma cells and myeloid cells (GAMs) significantly influences tumor progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of myeloid cell roles in glioblastoma.
- To analyze the bidirectional communication between glioma and GAMs.
- To identify therapeutic strategies targeting tumor-myeloid cell interactions.
Main Methods:
- Review of in vitro studies using rodent and human cell models.
- Analysis of in vivo studies employing syngeneic and xenogeneic animal models.
- Emphasis on temporal alterations in the brain microenvironment and cell-cell signaling.
Main Results:
- Glioma significantly alters the brain microenvironment over time.
- Bidirectional communication pathways exist between glioma and GAMs.
- These interactions create a pro-tumorigenic cycle that promotes glioblastoma growth and invasiveness.
Conclusions:
- Myeloid cells are critical regulators of glioblastoma progression.
- Targeting the communication between glioma and GAMs presents a promising therapeutic avenue.
- Identifying specific molecular and cellular targets could disrupt the tumor-supportive microenvironment.
