Molecular genetics of meningiomas

Abstract

<jats:p>In this article the authors provide a brief description of the current understanding of meningioma genetics. Chromosome 22 abnormalities, especially in the <jats:italic>Neurofibromatosis Type 2</jats:italic> (<jats:italic>NF2</jats:italic>) gene, have been associated with meningioma development. Loss of heterozygosity of chromosome 22 occurs in approximately 60% of meningiomas; however, loss of <jats:italic>NF2</jats:italic> gene function occurs in only one third of these lesions. This discrepancy supports the theory that a second tumor suppressor gene exists on chromosome 22, and the authors introduce several possible gene candidates, including <jats:italic>BAM22, LARGE, INI1</jats:italic>, and <jats:italic>MN1</jats:italic> genes. Deletions of 1p have also been shown to correlate with meningioma progression. The genetic similarities and differences among sporadic, NF2-associated, pediatric, and radiation-induced meningiomas are discussed, with the observation that the nonsporadic meningiomas have a higher incidence of multiple chromosomal abnormalities at presentation. Ultimately, a better understanding of the molecular pathways of meningioma tumorigenesis will lead to new, successful treatments.</jats:p>

Pulmonary and Pleural Metastases from Benign Meningeal Meningioma: A Case Report

“…More than 90% of grade III tumors exhibit aggressive behavior (local invasion and/or distant metastasis). 3) WHO grade I tumors almost never metastasize or invade adjacent structures. However, as this case demonstrates, a subset of WHO grade I meningiomas can have malignant potential.…”

Current standing and frontiers of gene therapy for meningiomas

“…68 This gene is found on chromosome 22q and encodes for a protein called merlin, whose main function is to link the cell membrane proteins to the cytoskeleton. Recent studies have revealed that merlin also plays a role as part of the actin cytoskeleton and is involved in the regulation of cell proliferation and growth and the initiation of neoplastic behavior.…”

Intracranial meningiomas: Two-years experience of Mustafa Kemal University

“…The etiology of meningiomas remains unclear, but ionizing radiation, brain injury, smoking, chronic viral infection, chromosomal abnormalities were proposed to be predisposing factors (Phillips et al, 2005). Meningiomas are generally benign and slow-growing tumors with less agressive behaviour (Ragel and Jensen, 2005). In this study the clinical, pathological characteristics and localizations of meningioma cases in our center at 2010-2012 have been analyzed.…”