Neuroscience in glioma biology (Review)

Although our understanding of the molecular and cellular factors involved in the development and growth of glioma has increased, prognosis remains dismal in most patients. The emerging field of cancer neuroscience has revealed the intricate functional interplay between glioma and the cellular architecture of the brain, especially neural circuits. In recent years, studies have revealed that glioma cells integrate and remodel multicellular neural circuits. Neural circuits have thus emerged as critical regulators of glioma from initiation to malignant growth. In the present review, an updated framework was provided for understanding the construction of neuron‑glioma networks and the mechanisms by which neurons regulate the malignant phenotype of glioma. Readers will also obtain insights into the construction of glioma‑glioma networks formed by tumor microtubes. Furthermore, the present review reveals the complex interconnectivity among the nervous system, immune system and glioma that promotes tumor growth. Finally, some potential areas of clinical translation and new research directions were highlighted.