Molecular Classification May Improve Method Physicians Use to Diagnose and Treat Gliomas

Analysis of the molecular structure of brain tumors into new categories with unique features and outcomes may drastically improve current treatment methods by targeting ideal techniques. A team of researchers from the Mayo Clinic and the University of California San Francisco published a study in the New England Journal of Medicine explaining their newly proposed classifications of brain tumors based on genetic makeup. The next phase is to produce readily available tests for tumor material for the more common types, with refinement for the lesser known segments to follow. “These molecular groups could represent distinct types of gliomas, with different origins and paths to progression,” said the lead researcher of the study. “Now that we know more about the germline alterations that predispose to these tumors and the ensemble of mutations that are associated with each type of glioma, we can start thinking about building models of the disease that can help us find new therapies to precisely target specific types of glioma.” To learn more about this study, click here.