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Current Molecular Medicine

Editor-in-Chief

ISSN (Print): 1566-5240
ISSN (Online): 1875-5666

Early Genetic Changes Involved in Low-Grade Astrocytic Tumor Development

Author(s): Dolores Arjona, Juan Antonio Rey and Shirley M. Taylor

Volume 6, Issue 6, 2006

Page: [645 - 650] Pages: 6

DOI: 10.2174/156652406778195017

Price: $65

Abstract

Astrocytomas represent the most common form of glial tumors. The most malignant grade of these tumors, glioblastoma multiforme, may arise as a malignant progression from low-grade astrocytoma through anaplastic astrocytoma to secondary GBM, or else it may arise “de novo” as primary GBM. Both types of glioblastoma are usually histologically indistinguishable. However, distinct molecular alterations have been described between them that potentially allow differentiation between the two mechanisms of origin. Since malignant transformation is a multistep process, we summarize in this review the earliest genetic changes that seem to be involved in the appearance and development of low-grade astrocytic tumors, where early detection and treatment could be possible.

Keywords: Low-grade astrocytomas, gene amplification, gene mutation, LOH, promoter hypermethylation


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