Biology and genetics of human neuroblastomas

Neuroblastomas have a variety of clinical behaviors, from spontaneous regression or differentiation to early metastasis and death. We have examined a variety of genetic variables that might explain or predict the clinical behavior.

We have studied DNA or RNA from a number of children enrolled in clinical trials with the major pediatric oncology cooperative groups.

We propose that neuroblastomas may be classified into three subsets with distinct biological features and clinical behavior. The first subset consists of those tumors with hyperdiploid modal karyotypes and high TRK-A expression. Patients with these tumors are usually infants with low stages of disease and a very favorable outcome. The second group consists of tumors that have a near-diploid DNA content, usually with 1p allelic loss or other structural changes, but they lack MYCN amplification, and TRK-A expression is low. The patients are generally older, with advanced stages of disease and an intermediate outcome. The third group is characterized by tumors with MYCN amplification, 1p allelic loss, and low or absent TRK-A expression. The patients are 1-5 years of age and have advanced stages of disease, rapid tumor progression, and a very poor prognosis. Current evidence suggests the tumor types are genetically distinct, and one type seldom if ever evolves into another.

Identification of these genetic and clinical subsets permits a more accurate prediction of outcome. This, in turn, allows more appropriate selection of therapeutic intensity to minimize side effects in those with a favorable outcome but optimize the chance of cure in those requiring aggressive treatment.