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SWI/SNF-deficient tumors of the central nervous system: An update
Abstract:
Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is a highly malignant tumor of the central nervous system characterized by biallelic inactivation of SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex members SMARCB1/INI1 or (rarely) SMARCA4/BRG1. Most high-grade central nervous system lesions showing loss of nuclear SMARCB1 or SMARCA4 protein expression can indeed be categorized as AT/RT. However, some high-grade lesions have been identified, whose clinical and/or molecular features justify separation from AT/RT. Furthermore, other recently described tumor types such as desmoplastic myxoid tumor, SMARCB1-mutant, and low-grade diffusely infiltrative tumor, SMARCB1-mutant, may even manifest as low-grade lesions. Here, we review recent developments in the definition of the molecular landscape of AT/RT and give an update on other rare high- and low-grade SWI/SNF-deficient central nervous system tumors.
Insights
Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (AT/RT) are aggressive brain tumors caused by SWI/SNF gene mutations. This review clarifies AT/RT diagnosis and distinguishes it from other rare SWI/SNF-deficient central nervous system tumors.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Molecular Pathology
- Genetics
Background:
- Atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is a rare, highly malignant central nervous system tumor.
- AT/RT is defined by the biallelic inactivation of SWI/SNF chromatin remodeling complex genes SMARCB1/INI1 or SMARCA4/BRG1.
- Loss of nuclear SMARCB1 or SMARCA4 protein expression is a hallmark of AT/RT.
Conclusions:
- The molecular definition of AT/RT continues to evolve.
- Accurate classification of SWI/SNF-deficient central nervous system tumors is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
- Distinguishing AT/RT from other rare SWI/SNF-deficient entities improves understanding of these rare brain tumors.
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