1
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Chatterjee J, Koleske JP, Chao A, Sauerbeck AD, Chen JK, Qi X, Ouyang M, Boggs LG, Idate R, Marco Y Marquez LI, Kummer TT, Gutmann DH. Brain injury drives optic glioma formation through neuron-glia signaling. Acta Neuropathol Commun 2024; 12:21. [PMID: 38308315 PMCID: PMC10837936 DOI: 10.1186/s40478-024-01735-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 01/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Tissue injury and tumorigenesis share many cellular and molecular features, including immune cell (T cells, monocytes) infiltration and inflammatory factor (cytokines, chemokines) elaboration. Their common pathobiology raises the intriguing possibility that brain injury could create a tissue microenvironment permissive for tumor formation. Leveraging several murine models of the Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) cancer predisposition syndrome and two experimental methods of brain injury, we demonstrate that both optic nerve crush and diffuse traumatic brain injury induce optic glioma (OPG) formation in mice harboring Nf1-deficient preneoplastic progenitors. We further elucidate the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms, whereby glutamate released from damaged neurons stimulates IL-1β release by oligodendrocytes to induce microglia expression of Ccl5, a growth factor critical for Nf1-OPG formation. Interruption of this cellular circuit using glutamate receptor, IL-1β or Ccl5 inhibitors abrogates injury-induced glioma progression, thus establishing a causative relationship between injury and tumorigenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jit Chatterjee
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Joshua P Koleske
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Astoria Chao
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Andrew D Sauerbeck
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ji-Kang Chen
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Xuanhe Qi
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Megan Ouyang
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Lucy G Boggs
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Rujuta Idate
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Lara Isabel Marco Y Marquez
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Terrence T Kummer
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - David H Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, Box 8111, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
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2
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Taylor KR, Monje M. Neuron-oligodendroglial interactions in health and malignant disease. Nat Rev Neurosci 2023; 24:733-746. [PMID: 37857838 PMCID: PMC10859969 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-023-00744-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Experience sculpts brain structure and function. Activity-dependent modulation of the myelinated infrastructure of the nervous system has emerged as a dimension of adaptive change during childhood development and in adulthood. Myelination is a richly dynamic process, with neuronal activity regulating oligodendrocyte precursor cell proliferation, oligodendrogenesis and myelin structural changes in some axonal subtypes and in some regions of the nervous system. This myelin plasticity and consequent changes to conduction velocity and circuit dynamics can powerfully influence neurological functions, including learning and memory. Conversely, disruption of the mechanisms mediating adaptive myelination can contribute to cognitive impairment. The robust effects of neuronal activity on normal oligodendroglial precursor cells, a putative cellular origin for many forms of glioma, indicates that dysregulated or 'hijacked' mechanisms of myelin plasticity could similarly promote growth in this devastating group of brain cancers. Indeed, neuronal activity promotes the pathogenesis of many forms of glioma in preclinical models through activity-regulated paracrine factors and direct neuron-to-glioma synapses. This synaptic integration of glioma into neural circuits is central to tumour growth and invasion. Thus, not only do neuron-oligodendroglial interactions modulate neural circuit structure and function in the healthy brain, but neuron-glioma interactions also have important roles in the pathogenesis of glial malignancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn R Taylor
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michelle Monje
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
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3
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Tang Y, Gutmann DH. Neurofibromatosis Type 1-Associated Optic Pathway Gliomas: Current Challenges and Future Prospects. Cancer Manag Res 2023; 15:667-681. [PMID: 37465080 PMCID: PMC10351533 DOI: 10.2147/cmar.s362678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Optic pathway glioma (OPG) occurs in as many as one-fifth of individuals with the neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) cancer predisposition syndrome. Generally considered low-grade and slow growing, many children with NF1-OPGs remain asymptomatic. However, due to their location within the optic pathway, ~20-30% of those harboring NF1-OPGs will experience symptoms, including progressive vision loss, proptosis, diplopia, and precocious puberty. While treatment with conventional chemotherapy is largely effective at attenuating tumor growth, it is not clear whether there is much long-term recovery of visual function. Additionally, because these tumors predominantly affect young children, there are unique challenges to NF1-OPG diagnosis, monitoring, and longitudinal management. Over the past two decades, the employment of authenticated genetically engineered Nf1-OPG mouse models have provided key insights into the function of the NF1 protein, neurofibromin, as well as the molecular and cellular pathways that contribute to optic gliomagenesis. Findings from these studies have resulted in the identification of new molecular targets whose inhibition blocks murine Nf1-OPG growth in preclinical studies. Some of these promising compounds have now entered into early clinical trials. Future research focused on defining the determinants that underlie optic glioma initiation, expansion, and tumor-induced optic nerve injury will pave the way to personalized risk assessment strategies, improved tumor monitoring, and optimized treatment plans for children with NF1-OPG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunshuo Tang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - David H Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
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4
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Asthma reduces glioma formation by T cell decorin-mediated inhibition of microglia. Nat Commun 2021; 12:7122. [PMID: 34880260 PMCID: PMC8654836 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-27455-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
To elucidate the mechanisms underlying the reduced incidence of brain tumors in children with Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and asthma, we leverage Nf1 optic pathway glioma (Nf1OPG) mice, human and mouse RNAseq data, and two different experimental asthma models. Following ovalbumin or house dust mite asthma induction at 4-6 weeks of age (WOA), Nf1OPG mouse optic nerve volumes and proliferation are decreased at 12 and 24 WOA, indicating no tumor development. This inhibition is accompanied by reduced expression of the microglia-produced optic glioma mitogen, Ccl5. Human and murine T cell transcriptome analyses reveal that inhibition of microglia Ccl5 production results from increased T cell expression of decorin, which blocks Ccl4-mediated microglia Ccl5 expression through reduced microglia NFκB signaling. Decorin or NFκB inhibitor treatment of Nf1OPG mice at 4-6 WOA inhibits tumor formation at 12 WOA, thus establishing a potential mechanistic etiology for the attenuated glioma incidence observed in children with asthma.
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5
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Pan Y, Hysinger JD, Barron T, Schindler NF, Cobb O, Guo X, Yalçın B, Anastasaki C, Mulinyawe SB, Ponnuswami A, Scheaffer S, Ma Y, Chang KC, Xia X, Toonen JA, Lennon JJ, Gibson EM, Huguenard JR, Liau LM, Goldberg JL, Monje M, Gutmann DH. NF1 mutation drives neuronal activity-dependent initiation of optic glioma. Nature 2021; 594:277-282. [PMID: 34040258 PMCID: PMC8346229 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-021-03580-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Neurons have recently emerged as essential cellular constituents of the tumour microenvironment, and their activity has been shown to increase the growth of a diverse number of solid tumours1. Although the role of neurons in tumour progression has previously been demonstrated2, the importance of neuronal activity to tumour initiation is less clear-particularly in the setting of cancer predisposition syndromes. Fifteen per cent of individuals with the neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1) cancer predisposition syndrome (in which tumours arise in close association with nerves) develop low-grade neoplasms of the optic pathway (known as optic pathway gliomas (OPGs)) during early childhood3,4, raising the possibility that postnatal light-induced activity of the optic nerve drives tumour initiation. Here we use an authenticated mouse model of OPG driven by mutations in the neurofibromatosis 1 tumour suppressor gene (Nf1)5 to demonstrate that stimulation of optic nerve activity increases optic glioma growth, and that decreasing visual experience via light deprivation prevents tumour formation and maintenance. We show that the initiation of Nf1-driven OPGs (Nf1-OPGs) depends on visual experience during a developmental period in which Nf1-mutant mice are susceptible to tumorigenesis. Germline Nf1 mutation in retinal neurons results in aberrantly increased shedding of neuroligin 3 (NLGN3) within the optic nerve in response to retinal neuronal activity. Moreover, genetic Nlgn3 loss or pharmacological inhibition of NLGN3 shedding blocks the formation and progression of Nf1-OPGs. Collectively, our studies establish an obligate role for neuronal activity in the development of some types of brain tumours, elucidate a therapeutic strategy to reduce OPG incidence or mitigate tumour progression, and underscore the role of Nf1mutation-mediated dysregulation of neuronal signalling pathways in mouse models of the NF1 cancer predisposition syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Pan
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Jared D. Hysinger
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Tara Barron
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Nicki F. Schindler
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Olivia Cobb
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Xiaofan Guo
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Belgin Yalçın
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Corina Anastasaki
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Sara B. Mulinyawe
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Anitha Ponnuswami
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Suzanne Scheaffer
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Yu Ma
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kun-Che Chang
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Xin Xia
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Joseph A. Toonen
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA
| | - James J. Lennon
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Erin M. Gibson
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - John R. Huguenard
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Linda M. Liau
- Department of Neurosurgery, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Jeffrey L. Goldberg
- Spencer Center for Vision Research, Byers Eye Institute, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Michelle Monje
- Department of Neurology and Neurological Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA. .,Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA. .,Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA. .,Department of Pathology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA.
| | - David H. Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO, USA,Correspondence and requests for materials should be addressed to M.M. or D.H.G. ;
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6
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Venkataramani V, Winkler F. Activation of retinal neurons triggers tumour formation in cancer-prone mice. Nature 2021; 594:179-180. [PMID: 34040239 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-021-01353-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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7
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Packer RJ, Iavarone A, Jones DTW, Blakeley JO, Bouffet E, Fisher MJ, Hwang E, Hawkins C, Kilburn L, MacDonald T, Pfister SM, Rood B, Rodriguez FJ, Tabori U, Ramaswamy V, Zhu Y, Fangusaro J, Johnston SA, Gutmann DH. Implications of new understandings of gliomas in children and adults with NF1: report of a consensus conference. Neuro Oncol 2021; 22:773-784. [PMID: 32055852 PMCID: PMC7283027 DOI: 10.1093/neuonc/noaa036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Gliomas are the most common primary central nervous system tumors occurring in children and adults with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1). Over the past decade, discoveries of the molecular basis of low-grade gliomas (LGGs) have led to new approaches for diagnosis and treatments. However, these new understandings have not been fully applied to the management of NF1-associated gliomas. A consensus panel consisting of experts in NF1 and gliomas was convened to review the current molecular knowledge of NF1-associated low-grade “transformed” and high-grade gliomas; insights gained from mouse models of NF1-LGGs; challenges in diagnosing and treating older patients with NF1-associated gliomas; and advances in molecularly targeted treatment and potential immunologic treatment of these tumors. Next steps are recommended to advance the management and outcomes for NF1-associated gliomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger J Packer
- Center for Neuroscience and Behavioral Medicine, Washington, DC, USA.,Gilbert Family Neurofibromatosis Institute, Brain Tumor Institute, and Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Antonio Iavarone
- Departments of Neurology and Pathology Institute for Cancer Genetics Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - David T W Jones
- Division of Pediatric Neuro-Oncology German Cancer Research Center Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jaishri O Blakeley
- Departments of Neurology; Oncology; Neurosurgery, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Eric Bouffet
- Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Program; Research Institute; and The Arthur and Sonia Labatt; Brain Tumor Research Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Michael J Fisher
- Department of Pediatric Oncology; Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Eugene Hwang
- Gilbert Family Neurofibromatosis Institute, Brain Tumor Institute, and Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Cynthia Hawkins
- Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Program; Research Institute; and The Arthur and Sonia Labatt; Brain Tumor Research Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Lindsay Kilburn
- Gilbert Family Neurofibromatosis Institute, Brain Tumor Institute, and Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Tobey MacDonald
- Department of Pediatrics; Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Stefan M Pfister
- Division of Pediatric Neuro-Oncology German Cancer Research Center Hopp Children's Cancer Center Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Brian Rood
- Gilbert Family Neurofibromatosis Institute, Brain Tumor Institute, and Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Fausto J Rodriguez
- Pathology; The Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Uri Tabori
- Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Program; Research Institute; and The Arthur and Sonia Labatt; Brain Tumor Research Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Vijay Ramaswamy
- Pediatric Neuro-Oncology Program; Research Institute; and The Arthur and Sonia Labatt; Brain Tumor Research Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Yuan Zhu
- Gilbert Family Neurofibromatosis Institute, Brain Tumor Institute, and Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Jason Fangusaro
- Department of Pediatrics; Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Stephen A Johnston
- Center for Innovations in Medicine; Biodesign Institute; Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona, USA
| | - David H Gutmann
- Department of Neurology; Washington University, St Louis, Missouri, USA
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8
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Optic Pathway Glioma in Type 1 Neurofibromatosis: Review of Its Pathogenesis, Diagnostic Assessment, and Treatment Recommendations. Cancers (Basel) 2019; 11:cancers11111790. [PMID: 31739524 PMCID: PMC6896195 DOI: 10.3390/cancers11111790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Type 1 neurofibromatosis (NF1) is a dominantly inherited condition predisposing to tumor development. Optic pathway glioma (OPG) is the most frequent central nervous system tumor in children with NF1, affecting approximately 15-20% of patients. The lack of well-established prognostic markers and the wide clinical variability with respect to tumor progression and visual outcome make the clinical management of these tumors challenging, with significant differences among distinct centers. We reviewed published articles on OPG diagnostic protocol, follow-up and treatment in NF1. Cohorts of NF1 children with OPG reported in the literature and patients prospectively collected in our center were analyzed with regard to clinical data, tumor anatomical site, diagnostic workflow, treatment and outcome. In addition, we discussed the recent findings on the pathophysiology of OPG development in NF1. This review provides a comprehensive overview about the clinical management of NF1-associated OPG, focusing on the most recent advances from preclinical studies with genetically engineered models and the ongoing clinical trials.
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9
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Abstract
As a cancer predisposition syndrome, individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) are at increased risk for the development of both benign and malignant tumors. One of the most common locations for these cancers is the central nervous system, where low-grade gliomas predominate in children. During early childhood, gliomas affecting the optic pathway are most frequently encountered, whereas gliomas of the brainstem and other locations are observed in slightly older children. In contrast, the majority of gliomas arising in adults with NF1 are malignant cancers, typically glioblastoma, involving the cerebral hemispheres. Our understanding of the pathogenesis of NF1-associated gliomas has been significantly advanced through the use of genetically engineered mice, yielding new targets for therapeutic drug design and evaluation. In addition, Nf1 murine glioma models have served as instructive platforms for defining the cell of origin of these tumors, elucidating the critical role of the tumor microenvironment in determining tumor growth and vision loss, and determining how cancer risk factors (sex, germline NF1 mutation) impact on glioma formation and progression. Moreover, these preclinical models have permitted early phase analysis of promising drugs that reduce tumor growth and attenuate vision loss, as an initial step prior to translation to human clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David H Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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10
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Isakson SH, Rizzardi AE, Coutts AW, Carlson DF, Kirstein MN, Fisher J, Vitte J, Williams KB, Pluhar GE, Dahiya S, Widemann BC, Dombi E, Rizvi T, Ratner N, Messiaen L, Stemmer-Rachamimov AO, Fahrenkrug SC, Gutmann DH, Giovannini M, Moertel CL, Largaespada DA, Watson AL. Genetically engineered minipigs model the major clinical features of human neurofibromatosis type 1. Commun Biol 2018; 1:158. [PMID: 30302402 PMCID: PMC6168575 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-018-0163-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) is a genetic disease caused by mutations in Neurofibromin 1 (NF1). NF1 patients present with a variety of clinical manifestations and are predisposed to cancer development. Many NF1 animal models have been developed, yet none display the spectrum of disease seen in patients and the translational impact of these models has been limited. We describe a minipig model that exhibits clinical hallmarks of NF1, including café au lait macules, neurofibromas, and optic pathway glioma. Spontaneous loss of heterozygosity is observed in this model, a phenomenon also described in NF1 patients. Oral administration of a mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase inhibitor suppresses Ras signaling. To our knowledge, this model provides an unprecedented opportunity to study the complex biology and natural history of NF1 and could prove indispensable for development of imaging methods, biomarkers, and evaluation of safety and efficacy of NF1-targeted therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara H Isakson
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Room 3-129, Cancer Cardiovascular Research Building, 2231 6th Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Anthony E Rizzardi
- Recombinetics Inc., 1246 University Avenue W., Suite 301, St. Paul, MN, 55104, USA
| | - Alexander W Coutts
- Recombinetics Inc., 1246 University Avenue W., Suite 301, St. Paul, MN, 55104, USA
| | - Daniel F Carlson
- Recombinetics Inc., 1246 University Avenue W., Suite 301, St. Paul, MN, 55104, USA
| | - Mark N Kirstein
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Room 3-129, Cancer Cardiovascular Research Building, 2231 6th Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.,Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Room 459, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - James Fisher
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota, Room 459, 717 Delaware Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55414, USA
| | - Jeremie Vitte
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center (JCCC), University of California Los Angeles, 675 Charles E Young Drive S, MRL Room 2240, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Kyle B Williams
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Room 3-129, Cancer Cardiovascular Research Building, 2231 6th Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - G Elizabeth Pluhar
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Room 3-129, Cancer Cardiovascular Research Building, 2231 6th Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.,Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, 1365 Gortner Avenue, St. Paul, MN, 55108, USA
| | - Sonika Dahiya
- Division of Neuropathology, Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660S. Euclid Avenue, CB 8118, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Brigitte C Widemann
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, CRC 1-5750, 10 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Eva Dombi
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, CRC 1-5750, 10 Center Drive, Bethesda, MD, 20892, USA
| | - Tilat Rizvi
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, ML 7013, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Nancy Ratner
- Division of Experimental Hematology and Cancer Biology, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital, University of Cincinnati, 3333 Burnet Avenue, ML 7013, Cincinnati, OH, 45229, USA
| | - Ludwine Messiaen
- Medical Genomics Laboratory, Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Kaul Building, 720 20th Street South, Birmingham, AL, 35294, USA
| | - Anat O Stemmer-Rachamimov
- Department of Pathology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Warren Building, Room 333A, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, MA, 02114, USA
| | - Scott C Fahrenkrug
- Recombinetics Inc., 1246 University Avenue W., Suite 301, St. Paul, MN, 55104, USA
| | - David H Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, Box 8111, 660S. Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Marco Giovannini
- Department of Head and Neck Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center (JCCC), University of California Los Angeles, 675 Charles E Young Drive S, MRL Room 2240, Los Angeles, CA, 90095, USA
| | - Christopher L Moertel
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Room 3-129, Cancer Cardiovascular Research Building, 2231 6th Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Room 3-129, Cancer Cardiovascular Research Building, 2231 6th Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - David A Largaespada
- Masonic Cancer Center, University of Minnesota, Room 3-129, Cancer Cardiovascular Research Building, 2231 6th Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Room 3-129, Cancer Cardiovascular Research Building, 2231 6th Street SE, Minneapolis, MN, 55455, USA
| | - Adrienne L Watson
- Recombinetics Inc., 1246 University Avenue W., Suite 301, St. Paul, MN, 55104, USA.
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11
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Pan Y, Duron C, Bush EC, Ma Y, Sims PA, Gutmann DH, Radunskaya A, Hardin J. Graph complexity analysis identifies an ETV5 tumor-specific network in human and murine low-grade glioma. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0190001. [PMID: 29787563 PMCID: PMC5963759 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0190001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2017] [Accepted: 12/06/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Conventional differential expression analyses have been successfully employed to identify genes whose levels change across experimental conditions. One limitation of this approach is the inability to discover central regulators that control gene expression networks. In addition, while methods for identifying central nodes in a network are widely implemented, the bioinformatics validation process and the theoretical error estimates that reflect the uncertainty in each step of the analysis are rarely considered. Using the betweenness centrality measure, we identified Etv5 as a potential tissue-level regulator in murine neurofibromatosis type 1 (Nf1) low-grade brain tumors (optic gliomas). As such, the expression of Etv5 and Etv5 target genes were increased in multiple independently-generated mouse optic glioma models relative to non-neoplastic (normal healthy) optic nerves, as well as in the cognate human tumors (pilocytic astrocytoma) relative to normal human brain. Importantly, differential Etv5 and Etv5 network expression was not directly the result of Nf1 gene dysfunction in specific cell types, but rather reflects a property of the tumor as an aggregate tissue. Moreover, this differential Etv5 expression was independently validated at the RNA and protein levels. Taken together, the combined use of network analysis, differential RNA expression findings, and experimental validation highlights the potential of the computational network approach to provide new insights into tumor biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Pan
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Christina Duron
- Department of Mathematics, Claremont Graduate University, Claremont, California, United Strates of America
| | - Erin C. Bush
- Departments of Systems Biology and of Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - Yu Ma
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Peter A. Sims
- Departments of Systems Biology and of Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - David H. Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Ami Radunskaya
- Department of Mathematics, Pomona College, Claremont, California, United States of America
| | - Johanna Hardin
- Department of Mathematics, Pomona College, Claremont, California, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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12
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Freret ME, Gutmann DH. Insights into optic pathway glioma vision loss from mouse models of neurofibromatosis type 1. J Neurosci Res 2018; 97:45-56. [PMID: 29704429 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2018] [Accepted: 04/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is a common cancer predisposition syndrome caused by mutations in the NF1 gene. The NF1-encoded protein (neurofibromin) is an inhibitor of the oncoprotein RAS and controls cell growth and survival. Individuals with NF1 are prone to developing low-grade tumors of the optic nerves, chiasm, tracts, and radiations, termed optic pathway gliomas (OPGs), which can cause vision loss. A paucity of surgical tumor specimens and of patient-derived xenografts for investigative studies has limited our understanding of human NF1-associated OPG (NF1-OPG). However, mice genetically engineered to harbor Nf1 gene mutations develop optic gliomas that share many features of their human counterparts. These genetically engineered mouse (GEM) strains have provided important insights into the cellular and molecular determinants that underlie mouse Nf1 optic glioma development, maintenance, and associated vision loss, with relevance by extension to human NF1-OPG disease. Herein, we review our current understanding of NF1-OPG pathobiology and describe the mechanisms responsible for tumor initiation, growth, and associated vision loss in Nf1 GEM models. We also discuss how Nf1 GEM and other preclinical models can be deployed to identify and evaluate molecularly targeted therapies for OPG, particularly as they pertain to future strategies aimed at preventing or improving tumor-associated vision loss in children with NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morgan E Freret
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - David H Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
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13
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Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) is one of the most common brain tumor predisposition syndromes, in which affected children are prone to the development of low-grade gliomas. While NF1-associated gliomas can be found in several brain regions, the majority arise in the optic nerves, chiasm, tracts, and radiations (optic pathway gliomas; OPGs). Owing to their location, 35-50% of affected children present with reduced visual acuity. Unfortunately, despite tumor stabilization following chemotherapy, vision does not improve in most children. For this reasons, more effective therapies are being sought that reflect a deeper understanding of the NF1 gene and the use of authenticated Nf1 genetically-engineered mouse strains. The implementation of these models for drug discovery and validation has galvanized molecularly-targeted clinical trials in children with NF1-OPG. Future research focused on defining the cellular and molecular factors that underlie optic glioma development and progression also has the potential to provide personalized risk assessment strategies for this pediatric population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David H. Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis MO
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14
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Optic Pathway Gliomas in Neurofibromatosis Type 1: An Update: Surveillance, Treatment Indications, and Biomarkers of Vision. J Neuroophthalmol 2017; 37 Suppl 1:S23-S32. [PMID: 28806346 DOI: 10.1097/wno.0000000000000550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Optic pathway gliomas (OPGs) occur in 15%-20% of children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), leading to visual deficits in fewer than half of these individuals. The goal of chemotherapy is to preserve vision, but vision loss in NF1-associated OPG can be unpredictable. Determining which child would benefit from chemotherapy and, equally important, which child is better observed without treatment can be difficult. Unfortunately, despite frequent imaging and ophthalmologic evaluations, some children experience progressive vision loss before treatment. Indications for chemotherapy usually are based on a comprehensive, quantitative assessment of vision, but reliable vision evaluation can be challenging in young children with NF1-OPG. The ability to identify and predict impending vision loss could potentially improve management decisions and visual outcomes. To address this challenge, ophthalmologic, electrophysiologic, and imaging biomarkers of vision in NF1-OPG have been proposed. We review current recommendations for the surveillance of children at risk for NF1-OPG, outline guidelines for initiating therapy, and describe the utility of proposed biomarkers for vision.
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15
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Walter C, Crawford L, Lai M, Toonen JA, Pan Y, Sakiyama-Elbert S, Gutmann DH, Pathak A. Increased Tissue Stiffness in Tumors from Mice with Neurofibromatosis-1 Optic Glioma. Biophys J 2017; 112:1535-1538. [PMID: 28445745 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpj.2017.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2016] [Revised: 03/04/2017] [Accepted: 03/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Children with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) cancer predisposition syndrome are prone to the development of low-grade brain tumors (gliomas) within the optic pathway (optic gliomas). One of the key obstacles to developing successful therapeutic strategies for these tumors is the striking lack of information about the mechanical properties that characterize these tumors relative to non-neoplastic optic nerve tissue. To study the physical changes that may occur when an optic nerve glioma is present, we employed atomic force microscopy to measure the stiffness of healthy versus tumor-bearing optic nerve tissue. We found that the average elastic moduli of non-neoplastic and tumor-bearing optic nerves were ∼3 and ∼6 kPa, respectively. Based on previous studies implicating changes in extracellular matrix remodeling in other, related optic nerve pathological states, we found decreased expression of one major metalloproteinase protein (MMP-2) and unchanged expression of lysyl oxidase and a second metalloproteinase, MMP-9, in murine optic gliomas relative to normal non-neoplastic optic nerve. Collectively, these observations suggest a productive interplay between physical properties of mouse optic nerve gliomas and the extracellular matrix.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Walter
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Lindsey Crawford
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Melinda Lai
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Joseph A Toonen
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Yuan Pan
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | | | - David H Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Amit Pathak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri; Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri.
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16
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Abstract
Neurofibromatosis (NF) encompasses a group of distinct genetic disorders in which affected children and adults are prone to the development of benign and malignant tumors of the nervous system. The purpose of this review is to discuss the spectrum of CNS tumors arising in individuals with NF type 1 (NF1) and NF type 2 (NF2), their pathogenic etiologies, and the rational treatment options for people with these neoplasms. This article is a review of preclinical and clinical data focused on the treatment of the most common CNS tumors encountered in children and adults with NF1 and NF2. Although children with NF1 are at risk for developing low-grade gliomas of the optic pathway and brainstem, individuals with NF2 typically manifest low-grade tumors affecting the cranial nerves (vestibular schwannomas), meninges (meningiomas), and spinal cord (ependymomas). With the identification of the NF1 and NF2 genes, molecularly targeted therapies are beginning to emerge, as a result of a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underlying NF1 and NF2 protein function. As we enter into an era of precision oncology, a more comprehensive awareness of the factors that increase the risk of developing CNS cancers in affected individuals, coupled with a greater appreciation of the cellular and molecular determinants that maintain tumor growth, will undoubtedly yield more effective therapies for these cancer predisposition syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Campian
- All authors: Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - David H Gutmann
- All authors: Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
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17
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Gutmann DH, Ferner RE, Listernick RH, Korf BR, Wolters PL, Johnson KJ. Neurofibromatosis type 1. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2017; 3:17004. [PMID: 28230061 DOI: 10.1038/nrdp.2017.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 406] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Neurofibromatosis type 1 is a complex autosomal dominant disorder caused by germline mutations in the NF1 tumour suppressor gene. Nearly all individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 develop pigmentary lesions (café-au-lait macules, skinfold freckling and Lisch nodules) and dermal neurofibromas. Some individuals develop skeletal abnormalities (scoliosis, tibial pseudarthrosis and orbital dysplasia), brain tumours (optic pathway gliomas and glioblastoma), peripheral nerve tumours (spinal neurofibromas, plexiform neurofibromas and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumours), learning disabilities, attention deficits, and social and behavioural problems, which can negatively affect quality of life. With the identification of NF1 and the generation of accurate preclinical mouse strains that model some of these clinical features, therapies that target the underlying molecular and cellular pathophysiology for neurofibromatosis type 1 are becoming available. Although no single treatment exists, current clinical management strategies include early detection of disease phenotypes (risk assessment) and biologically targeted therapies. Similarly, new medical and behavioural interventions are emerging to improve the quality of life of patients. Although considerable progress has been made in understanding this condition, numerous challenges remain; a collaborative and interdisciplinary approach is required to manage individuals with neurofibromatosis type1 and to develop effective treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H Gutmann
- Department of Neurology, Washington University School of Medicine, Box 8111, 660 S. Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri 63110, USA
| | - Rosalie E Ferner
- Department of Neurology, Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Robert H Listernick
- Department of Academic General Pediatrics and Primary Care, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Bruce R Korf
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Pamela L Wolters
- Pediatric Oncology Branch, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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18
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Freret ME, Gutmann DH. Optic pathway gliomas in neurofibromatosis-1: controversies and recommendations. Ann Neurol 2007; 61:189-98. [PMID: 17387725 PMCID: PMC5908242 DOI: 10.1002/ana.21107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 358] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Optic pathway glioma (OPG), seen in 15% to 20% of individuals with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), account for significant morbidity in young children with NF1. Overwhelmingly a tumor of children younger than 7 years, OPG may present in individuals with NF1 at any age. Although many OPG may remain indolent and never cause signs or symptoms, others lead to vision loss, proptosis, or precocious puberty. Because the natural history and treatment of NF1-associated OPG is different from that of sporadic OPG in individuals without NF1, a task force composed of basic scientists and clinical researchers was assembled in 1997 to propose a set of guidelines for the diagnosis and management of NF1-associated OPG. This new review highlights advances in our understanding of the pathophysiology and clinical behavior of these tumors made over the last 10 years. Controversies in both the diagnosis and management of these tumors are examined. Finally, specific evidence-based recommendations are proposed for clinicians caring for children with NF1.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David H. Gutmann
- To whom correspondence should be addressed: Telephone: 314-362-7379, Facsimile: 314-362-2388,
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