Using the Neurofibromatosis Tumor Predisposition Syndromes to Understand Normal Nervous System Development. (27th August 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Garcia, Cynthia; Gutmann, David H.
• Other Names: Fuso Andrea Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Scientifica. Volume 2014(2014)
• Publication Date: 2014-08-27
• Subjects: Life sciences -- Periodicals; Biology -- Periodicals; Medicine -- Periodicals; Biological Science Disciplines; Medicine; Biology; Life sciences; Medicine; Periodicals; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 500
• DOI: 10.1155/2014/915725
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-908X

Abstract

Abstract : Development is a tightly regulated process that involves stem cell self-renewal, differentiation, cell-to-cell communication, apoptosis, and blood vessel formation. These coordinated processes ensure that tissues maintain a size and architecture that is appropriate for normal tissue function. As such, tumors arise when cells acquire genetic mutations that allow them to escape the normal growth constraints. In this regard, the study of tumor predisposition syndromes affords a unique platform to better understand normal development and the process by which normal cells transform into cancers. Herein, we review the processes governing normal brain development, discuss how brain cancer represents a disruption of these normal processes, and highlight insights into both normal development and cancer made possible by the study of tumor predisposition syndromes.