Advancements in Preclinical Models for NF2-Related Schwannomatosis Research

NF2-related Schwannomatosis (NF2-SWN) remains a disorder with few effective treatment options. Patients develop vestibular schwannomas (VSs) on both auditory nerves, which gradually impair hearing and often result in significant communication difficulties, social withdrawal, and higher rates of depression. Progress in understanding NF2-SWN biology and translating discoveries into therapies has been slowed by the absence of robust animal models that faithfully reproduce both tumor behavior and the associated neurological deficits. In this review, we summarized the development of animal models that not only reproduce tumor growth in the peripheral nerve microenvironment but also reproduce tumor-induced neurological symptoms, such as hearing loss and ataxia. We further highlight the currently available organotypic models for NF2-SWN. Together, these systems provide an essential foundation for advancing mechanistic studies and accelerating the development of effective therapies for this devastating disorder.