The potential for genetically altered microglia to influence glioma treatment

CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets. 2013 Sep;12(6):750-62. doi: 10.2174/18715273113126660171.

Abstract

Diffuse and unstoppable infiltration of brain and spinal cord tissue by neoplastic glial cells is the single most important therapeutic problem posed by the common glioma group of tumors: astrocytoma, oligoastrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, their malignant variants and glioblastoma. These neoplasms account for more than two thirds of all malignant central nervous system tumors. However, most glioma research focuses on an examination of the tumor cells rather than on host-specific, tumor micro-environmental cells and factors. This can explain why existing diffuse glioma therapies fail and why these tumors have remained incurable. Thus, there is a great need for innovation. We describe a novel strategy for the development of a more effective treatment of diffuse glioma. Our approach centers on gaining control over the behavior of the microglia, the defense cells of the CNS, which are manipulated by malignant glioma and support its growth. Armoring microglia against the influences from glioma is one of our research goals. We further discuss how microglia precursors may be genetically enhanced to track down infiltrating glioma cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Brain Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Brain Neoplasms / pathology
  • Brain Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Gene Regulatory Networks / genetics
  • Genetic Therapy / methods*
  • Genetic Therapy / trends
  • Glioma / genetics*
  • Glioma / pathology
  • Glioma / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Microglia / pathology
  • Microglia / physiology*
  • Treatment Outcome