Apoptosis in human primary brain tumours

Abstract

Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, has been recognized for nearly three decades as occurring in many organs in response to different pathophysiological stimuli. It is now recognized as one of the fundamental cellular biological processes. In human glioma it was initially identified as 'shrinkage necrosis'. This review outlines the characteristics of apoptosis in the various types of primary human brain tumours. The significance of apoptosis is reviewed in relation to normal and tumour cell dynamics, cellular susceptibility to normal and oncogenic signals and to potential therapeutic advances. On a practical level, methods which are currently used to analyse different aspects of the apoptotic process are introduced. These techniques for analysing apoptosis are critically evaluated and compared. Current developments elucidating the diverse pathways of apoptosis signalling are also reviewed. The potential of pro-apoptotic therapy for the treatment of gliomas is discussed.

• Apoptosis Cell Death Glioma Oligodendroglioma