Neuroblastoma - a developmental perspective.
Genetic investigation of neuroblastoma has provided few clues to account for the variability in clinical phenotype which is such a characteristic feature of this tumour. Indeed, efforts to identify the primary genetic event(s) responsible for tumour development have been overwhelmed by the number and range of different genetic abnormalities observed, particularly in the more aggressive neuroblastoma subtypes. Since neuroblastoma is a consequence of aberrant development of the sympathetic nervous system (SNS), investigation of the genetic components known to be involved in the control of SNS developmental, may provide the key to understanding tumour behaviour. The neurotrophins and the glial family ligands both play very significant roles in different stages of SNS development and merit more detailed investigation as to how they might influence neuroblastoma tumorigenesis.
McConville
Carmel M
CM
Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Birmingham, Vincent Drive, B15 2TT Birmingham, UK. c.mcconville@bham.ac.uk
Forsyth
Joan
J
D005260:Female; D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009419:Nerve Tissue Proteins / Q000378:metabolism; D009423:Nervous System Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D009447:Neuroblastoma / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology*; D010375:Pedigree
D009419:Nerve Tissue Proteins