Neural and Cancer Stem Cells in Tumor Suppressor MouseModels of Malignant Astrocytoma

摘要

Malignant astrocytomas are highly invasive brain tumors that portend poor prognosis and dismal survival. Mouse models thatgenetically resemble the human malignancy provide insight into the nature and pathogenesis of these cancers. We previouslyreported tumor suppressor mouse models based on conditional inactivation of human astrocytoma-relevant genes p53, , andPten. These mice develop, with full penetrance, varying grades of astrocytic malignancy that recapitulate the human conditionhistologically and molecularly. Our studies indicate a central role for neural stem cells and stem-cell-like cancer cells in tumorinitiation and progression. These mouse models thus represent powerful tools for investigating various aspects of tumor devel-opment that otherwise cannot be explored in humans. Further studies will provide a better understanding of the biology of thesetumors and will hopefully pave the way for more effective therapeutic approaches for these devastating diseases.