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Neuroblastoma: Essential genetic pathways and current therapeutic options
Fateme Salemi1, Waqas Alam2, Maryam Sadat Hassani3
1Islamic Azad University of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Yazd, Iran.
European Journal of Pharmacology
|May 23, 2022
Summary
Neuroblastoma, a diverse pediatric cancer from neural crest cells, accounts for over 15% of childhood cancer deaths. This review summarizes neuroblastoma pathogenesis, genetic pathways, and current therapeutic options.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Oncology
- Cancer Genetics
- Tumor Biology
Background:
- Neuroblastoma is a diverse pediatric tumor originating from neural crest cells, causing over 15% of juvenile cancer deaths.
- Clinical presentation and metastatic spread (bone, lymph nodes, liver, CNS) vary widely.
- Imaging techniques like CT and MRI aid in diagnosis and staging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on neuroblastoma pathogenesis.
- To summarize essential genetic pathways implicated in neuroblastoma.
- To provide an overview of available therapeutic options for neuroblastoma.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of neuroblastoma pathogenesis.
- Analysis of genetic pathways driving neuroblastoma.
- Compilation of current therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Neuroblastoma exhibits diverse clinical and metastatic patterns.
- Key genetic pathways (ALK, MYCN, RAS) are crucial in neuroblastoma development.
- Therapeutic options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted agents.
Conclusions:
- Understanding neuroblastoma pathogenesis and genetics is vital for effective treatment.
- Targeted therapies and novel inhibitors show promise in overcoming treatment resistance.
- Multimodal treatment approaches are essential for managing different neuroblastoma risk groups.
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