Mouse Models in Meningioma Research: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Comparative oncology
• Translational research

Background:

• Meningiomas represent the most common primary central nervous system tumors in adults.
• Mouse models are crucial for advancing the understanding of cancer biology and preclinical drug evaluation.
• The development of meningioma mouse models has progressed with enhanced biological insights and genetic engineering.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review existing mouse models for meningioma research.
• To evaluate the utility of different model systems for dissecting tumorigenesis and therapeutic testing.
• To provide an overview of available models for diverse research questions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of all described meningioma mouse models.
• Categorization into xenograft models (orthotopic/heterotopic) and genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs).
• Analysis of model applications in preclinical drug testing and mechanistic studies.

Main Results:

• Xenograft models are valuable for extensive preclinical drug screening and evaluation of novel therapeutics.
• Genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) closely replicate human meningiomas histologically, anatomically, and genetically.
• GEMMs are instrumental in dissecting meningioma initiation and progression mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• A diverse array of meningioma mouse models is currently available to researchers.
• The choice of model depends on the specific scientific inquiry, ranging from drug testing to mechanistic studies.
• Continued development of mouse models is essential for advancing meningioma research and treatment strategies.