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Multipotent mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) and MSC-derived products have emerged as promising therapeutic tools. To fully exploit their potential, further mechanistic studies are still necessary and bioprocessing needs to be optimized, which requires an abundant supply of functional MSC for basic research. To address this need, here we used a novel technology to establish a human adipose-derived MSC line with functional characteristics representative of primary MSC. Primary MSC were isolated and subjected to lentiviral transduction with a library of expansion genes. Clonal cell lines were generated and evaluated on the basis of their morphology, immunophenotype, and proliferation potential. One clone (K5 iMSC) was then selected for further characterization. This clone had integrated a specific transgene combination including genes involved in stemness and maintenance of adult stem cells. Favorably, the K5 iMSC showed cell characteristics resembling juvenile MSC, as they displayed a shorter cell length and enhanced migration and proliferation compared with the non-immortalized original primary MSC (p < 0.05). Still, their immunophenotype and differentiation potential corresponded to the original primary MSC and the MSC definition criteria, and cytogenetic analyses revealed no clonal aberrations. We conclude that the technology used is applicable to generate functional MSC lines for basic research and possible future bioprocessing applications.

Now that induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-based transplants have been performed in humans and organizations have begun producing clinical-grade iPSCs, it is imperative that strict quality control standards are agreed upon. This is essential as both ESCs and iPSCs have been shown to accumulate genomic aberrations during long-term culturing. These aberrations can include copy number variations, trisomy, amplifications of chromosomal regions, deletions of chromosomal regions, loss of heterozygosity, and epigenetic abnormalities. Moreover, although the differences between iPSCs and ESCs appear largely negligible when a high enough n number is used for comparison, the reprogramming process can generate further aberrations in iPSCs, including copy number variations and deletions in tumor-suppressor genes. If mutations or epigenetic signatures are present in parental cells, these can also be carried over into iPSCs. To maximize patient safety, we recommend a set of standards to be utilized when preparing iPSCs for clinical use. Reprogramming methods that do not involve genomic integration should be used. Cultured cells should be grown using feeder-free and serum-free systems to avoid animal contamination. Karyotyping, whole-genome sequencing, gene expression analyses, and standard sterility tests should all become routine quality control tests. Analysis of mitochondrial DNA integrity, whole-epigenome analyses, as well as single-cell genome sequencing of large cell populations may also prove beneficial. Furthermore, clinical-grade stem cells need to be produced under accepted regulatory good manufacturing process standards. The creation of haplobanks that provide major histocompatibility complex matching is also recommended to improve allogeneic stem cell engraftment.

The central neurocytoma (CN) is a rare brain tumor with a frequency of 0.1-0.5% of all brain tumors. According to the World Health Organization classification, it is a benign grade II tumor with good prognosis. However, some CN occur as histologically "atypical" variant, combined with increasing proliferation and poor clinical outcome. Detailed genetic knowledge could be helpful to characterize a potential atypical behavior in CN. Only few publications on genetics of CN exist in the literature. Therefore, we performed cytogenetic analysis of an intraventricular neurocytoma WHO grade II in a 39-year-old male patient by use of genome-wide high-density single nucleotide polymorphism array (SNP array) and subtelomere FISH. Applying these techniques, we could detect known chromosomal aberrations and identified six not previously described chromosomal aberrations, gains of 1p36.33-p36.31, 2q37.1-q37.3, 6q27, 12p13.33-p13.31, 20q13.31-q13.33, and loss of 19p13.3-p12. Our case report contributes to the genetic knowledge about CN and to increased understanding of "typical" and "atypical" variants.

We present two cases of atypical meningioma WHO grade II with a history of multiple local recurrences and late pulmonary metastases. Comparative cytogenetic analyses on 1p and 22q confirmed clonal origin of the primary intracranial meningiomas and the pulmonary metastases in both cases. These cases illustrate the importance of close neuroradiological follow-up to detect tumor recurrence in patients with atypical meningiomas WHO grade II even with clinically stable disease and should sensitize clinicians to late extracranial metastases of these tumors, especially to the lung. In an effort to elucidate common clinical features of metastatic meningiomas, especially to the lung, the literature was reviewed from 1995 to 2014, identifying a total of 45 published cases.

According to the World Health Organization gangliogliomas are classified as well-differentiated and slowly growing neuroepithelial tumors, composed of neoplastic mature ganglion and glial cells. It is the most frequent tumor entity observed in patients with long-term epilepsy. Comprehensive cytogenetic and molecular cytogenetic data including high-resolution genomic profiling (single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-array) of gangliogliomas are scarce but necessary for a better oncological understanding of this tumor entity. For a detailed characterization at the single cell and cell population levels, we analyzed genomic alterations of three gangliogliomas using trypsin-Giemsa banding (GTG-banding) and by spectral karyotyping (SKY) in combination with SNP-array and gene expression array experiments. By GTG and SKY, we could confirm frequently detected chromosomal aberrations (losses within chromosomes 10, 13 and 22; gains within chromosomes 5, 7, 8 and 12), and identify so far unknown genetic aberrations like the unbalanced non-reciprocal translocation t(1;18)(q21;q21). Interestingly, we report on the second so far detected ganglioglioma with ring chromosome 1. Analyses of SNP-array data from two of the tumors and respective germline DNA (peripheral blood) identified few small gains and losses and a number of copy-neutral regions with loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in germline and in tumor tissue. In comparison to germline DNA, tumor tissues did not show substantial regions with significant loss or gain or with newly developed LOH. Gene expression analyses of tumor-specific genes revealed similarities in the profile of the analyzed samples regarding different relevant pathways. Taken together, we describe overlapping but also distinct and novel genetic aberrations of three gangliogliomas.

A meningioma is the most common primary intracranial tumor in adults. Here, we investigated the therapeutic potential of the tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) in 37 meningiomas. Freshly isolated primary meningioma cells were treated with TRAIL with or without different sensitizing protocols, and apoptotic cell death was then quantified. Mechanisms of TRAIL sensitization were determined by a combination of Western blotting, flow cytometry, receptor complex immunoprecipitation, and siRNA-mediated knockdown experiments. Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand receptor expression was analyzed using immunohistochemistry and quantified by an automated software-based algorithm. Primary tumor cells from 11 (29.7%) tumor samples were sensitive to TRAIL-induced apoptosis, 12 (32.4%) were intermediate TRAIL resistant, and 14 (37.8%) were completely TRAIL resistant. We tested synergistic apoptosis-inducing cotreatment strategies and determined that only the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib potently enhanced expression of the TRAIL receptors TRAIL-R1 and/or TRAIL-R2, the formation of the TRAIL death-inducing signaling complex, and activation of caspases; this treatment resulted in sensitization of all TRAIL-resistant meningioma samples to TRAIL-induced apoptosis. Bortezomib pretreatment induced NOXA expression and downregulated c-FLIP, neither of which caused the TRAIL-sensitizing effect. Native TRAIL receptor expression could not predict primary TRAIL sensitivity. This first report on TRAIL sensitivity of primary meningioma cells demonstrates that TRAIL/bortezomib cotreatment may represent a novel therapeutic option for meningiomas.

Multiple meningiomas with synchronous tumor lesions represent only 1–9% of all meningiomas and usually show a uniform histology. The simultaneous occurrence of different grades of malignancy in these nodules is observed in only one third of multiple meningiomas. We report a case of a sporadic multiple meningioma presenting with different histopathological grades (WHO I and II). The tumor genome of both nodules was analyzed by GTG-banding, spectral karyotyping (SKY), locus-specific FISH, and single nucleotide polymorphism array (SNP-A) karyotyping. GTG-banding and SKY revealed 25 structural and 33 numerical aberrations with a slightly increased aberration frequency in the WHO grade II nodule. We could confirm terminal deletions on chromosomes 1p [ish del(1)(p36)(p58-,pter-) 16.5% WHO grade I and 20.9% WHO grade II], partial deletions on 22q, and/or monosomy 22 (monosomy 22 14% WHO grade I and 34% WHO grade II) as the most frequent aberrations in both meningioma nodules. In the meningioma WHO grade II, in addition, a de novo paracentric inversion within chromosomal band 1p36 was detectable. Furthermore, for meningiomas de novo , dicentric chromosomes 4 could be identified in both tumor nodules. We also detected previously published segmental uniparental disomy regions 1p31.1, 6q14.1, 10q21.1, and 14q23.3 in normal control DNA of the patient and in both tumor nodules. Taken together, we describe a very rare case of multiple meningioma with overlapping but also distinct genetic aberration patterns in two nodules of different WHO grades of malignancy.

TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), a promising novel anti-cancer cytokine of the TNF superfamily, and Bortezomib, the first-in-class clinically used proteasome inhibitor, alone or in combination have been shown to efficiently kill numerous tumor cell lines. However, data concerning primary human tumor cells are very rare. Using primary esthesioneuroblastoma cells we analyzed the anti-tumor potential and the mechanism employed by Bortezomib in combination with TRAIL for the treatment of this rare but aggressive tumor. Expression of components of the TRAIL pathway was analyzed in tumor specimens and isolated primary tumor cells at the protein level. Cells were treated with TRAIL, Bortezomib, and a combination thereof, and apoptosis induction was quantified. Clonogenicity assays were performed to elucidate the long-term effect of this treatment. Despite expressing all components of the TRAIL pathway, freshly isolated primary esthesioneuroblastoma cells were completely resistant to TRAIL-induced apoptosis. They could, however, be very efficiently sensitized by subtoxic doses of Bortezomib. The influence of Bortezomib on the TRAIL pathway was analyzed and showed upregulation of TRAIL death receptor expression, enhancement of the TRAIL death-inducing signaling complex (DISC), and downregulation of anti-apoptotic proteins of the TRAIL pathway. Of clinical relevance, TRAIL-resistant primary tumor cells could be repeatedly sensitized by Bortezomib, providing the basis for repeated clinical application schedules. This is the first report on the highly synergistic induction of apoptosis in primary esthesioneuroblastoma cells by Bortezomib and TRAIL. This combination, therefore, represents a promising novel therapeutic option for esthesioneuroblastoma.

A case of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) that was investigated with a broad spectrum of cytogenetic and molecular cytogenetic techniques is reported. The results of cytogenetic studies, interphase fluorescence in situ hybridization, comparative genomic hybridization, and spectral karyotyping (SKY) are reported. Various structural chromosomal aberrations were identified, among which aberrations involving chromosome arm 2p were especially frequent. Using SKY, six translocations not previously described in GBM are reported.

We report on a 30-year-old woman with short stature, completely female external genitalia, primary amenorrhea, bilateral streak gonads, unilateral gonadoblastoma, and a 46,X,del(Y)(q11)/45,X karyotype. Variable levels of mosaicism were found in blood and cultivated fibroblasts from both the skin and ovaries, with the percentage of the 45,X lineage never exceeding 33%. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) was performed with alpha satellite centromere region probes of the X and Y chromosomes (DXZ1 and DXZ3) as well as with the unique-sequence, locus-specific, sex-determining region of the Y chromosome gene (SRY) and the DXZ1 probes. Each signal was noted for DXZ1 on the X chromosome and for the Y probes on the marker chromosome. Molecular investigations with a panel of PCR markers spread over the whole Y chromosome indicated a deletion breakpoint between sY 78 (interval 4) and sY 151 (interval 5F). No mutation of the high mobility group-box (HMG-box) of the SRY gene could be found following sequence analysis. The phenotype/genotype correlation demonstrates the broad phenotypic range of low-level 45,X mosaicism with the resultant short stature and external female phenotype, despite the presence of SRY in a high proportion of cells in various tissues.

We present two cases of atypical meningioma WHO grade II with a history of multiple local recurrences and late pulmonary metastases. Comparative cytogenetic analyses on 1p and 22q confirmed clonal origin of the primary intracranial meningiomas and the pulmonary metastases in both cases. These cases illustrate the importance of close neuroradiological follow-up to detect tumor recurrence in patients with atypical meningiomas WHO grade II even with clinically stable disease and should sensitize clinicians to late extracranial metastases of these tumors, especially to the lung. In an effort to elucidate common clinical features of metastatic meningiomas, especially to the lung, the literature was reviewed from 1995 to 2014, identifying a total of 45 published cases.

According to the World Health Organization gangliogliomas are classified as well-differentiated and slowly growing neuroepithelial tumors, composed of neoplastic mature ganglion and glial cells. It is the most frequent tumor entity observed in patients with long-term epilepsy. Comprehensive cytogenetic and molecular cytogenetic data including high-resolution genomic profiling (single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)-array) of gangliogliomas are scarce but necessary for a better oncological understanding of this tumor entity. For a detailed characterization at the single cell and cell population levels, we analyzed genomic alterations of three gangliogliomas using trypsin-Giemsa banding (GTG-banding) and by spectral karyotyping (SKY) in combination with SNP-array and gene expression array experiments. By GTG and SKY, we could confirm frequently detected chromosomal aberrations (losses within chromosomes 10, 13 and 22; gains within chromosomes 5, 7, 8 and 12), and identify so far unknown genetic aberrations like the unbalanced non-reciprocal translocation t(1;18)(q21;q21). Interestingly, we report on the second so far detected ganglioglioma with ring chromosome 1. Analyses of SNP-array data from two of the tumors and respective germline DNA (peripheral blood) identified few small gains and losses and a number of copy-neutral regions with loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in germline and in tumor tissue. In comparison to germline DNA, tumor tissues did not show substantial regions with significant loss or gain or with newly developed LOH. Gene expression analyses of tumor-specific genes revealed similarities in the profile of the analyzed samples regarding different relevant pathways. Taken together, we describe overlapping but also distinct and novel genetic aberrations of three gangliogliomas.

Recent advances in the in vitro characterization of human adult enteric neural progenitor cells have opened new possibilities for cell-based therapies in gastrointestinal motility disorders. However, whether these cells are able to integrate within an in vivo gut environment is still unclear. In this study, we transplanted neural progenitor-containing neurosphere-like bodies (NLBs) in a mouse model of hypoganglionosis and analyzed cellular integration of NLB-derived cell types and functional improvement. NLBs were propagated from postnatal and adult human gut tissues. Cells were characterized by immunohistochemistry, quantitative PCR and subtelomere fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). For in vivo evaluation, the plexus of murine colon was damaged by the application of cationic surfactant benzalkonium chloride which was followed by the transplantation of NLBs in a fibrin matrix. After 4 weeks, grafted human cells were visualized by combined in situ hybridization (Alu) and immunohistochemistry (PGP9.5, GFAP, SMA). In addition, we determined nitric oxide synthase (NOS)-positive neurons and measured hypertrophic effects in the ENS and musculature. Contractility of treated guts was assessed in organ bath after electrical field stimulation. NLBs could be reproducibly generated without any signs of chromosomal alterations using subtelomere FISH. NLB-derived cells integrated within the host tissue and showed expected differentiated phenotypes i.e. enteric neurons, glia and smooth muscle-like cells following in vivo transplantation. Our data suggest biological effects of the transplanted NLB cells on tissue contractility, although robust statistical results could not be obtained due to the small sample size. Further, it is unclear, which of the NLB cell types including neural progenitors have direct restoring effects or, alternatively may act via 'bystander' mechanisms in vivo. Our findings provide further evidence that NLB transplantation can be considered as feasible tool to improve ENS function in a variety of gastrointestinal disorders.

We report on a 29-year-old woman with a history of five spontaneous abortions and a balanced complex chromosome rearrangement (CCR) involving break points between chromosomes 8, 11, and 12. Fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH) in combination with giemsa trypsin banding techniques were essential for the identification of the breakpoints. In addition, the results were confirmed by 24-colour FISH using the spectral karyotyping system (SKY). The karyotype was 46,XX,t(8;11;12)(8qter→8p10::12p10→12pter;11pter→ 11q14::8p10→8pter;12qter→12p10::11q14→11qter). Application of SKY facilitated detection of all three chromosomes involved and supported the localisation of the breakpoints by a single time and sample saving investigation.

We describe a de novo trisomy 5p in a 1-year-old severely retarded boy. The complete short arm of chromosome 5 segregated as an additional marker chromosome in all metaphases. The marker was identified as 5p by conventional cytogenetic techniques (GTG, GBG, CBG) and molecular cytogenetic techniques (whole chromosome-painting probe, probes for the cri-du-chat region and the centromere, and additionally high-resolution multicolor banding using a chromosome 5-specific DNA probe cocktail). The clinical findings were similar to the established trisomy 5p phenotype including macrocephaly, facial abnormalities, tracheobronchial defects with subsequent respiratory infections, hypotonia, and psychomotor retardation. To the best of our knowledge this is the first description of an isolated complete 5p trisomy without involvement of the aberrant chromosome in any structural chromosomal rearrangements.

Prenatal diagnosis of Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy (DMD) is performed as a routine procedure in many laboratories. The major potential problem is an incorrect diagnosis that could be obtained due to contamination with maternal tissue. We report a case of mosaicism of the X-chromosomes confined to the placenta as a possible source of confusing results in prenatal diagnosis of DMD. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of this problem in a prenatal DMD diagnosis.

Medulloblastoma (WHO grade IV) is a rare, malignant, invasive, embryonal tumor which mainly occurs in children and represents less than 1% of all adult brain tumors. Systematic comprehensive genetic analyses on medulloblastomas are rare but necessary to provide more detailed information. Therefore, we performed comprehensive cytogenetic analyses (blood and tissue) of two pediatric and one adult medulloblastoma, using trypsin-Giemsa staining, spectral karyotyping (tissues only), SNP-arrays, and gene expression analyses. We confirmed frequently detected chromosomal aberrations in medulloblastoma, such as +7q, -8p/q, -9q, -11q, -12q, and +17q and identified novel genetic events. Applying SNP-array, we identified constitutional de novo losses 5q21.1, 15q11.2, 17q21.31, 19p12 (pediatric medulloblastoma), 9p21.1, 19p12, 19q13.3, 21q11.2 (adult medulloblastoma) and gains 16p11.1-16p11.2, 18p11.32, Yq11.223-Yq11.23 (pediatric medulloblastoma), Xp22.31 (adult medulloblastoma) possibly representing inherited causal events for medulloblastoma formation. We show evidence for somatic segmental uniparental disomy in regions 1p36, 6q16.3, 6q24.1, 14q21.2, 17p13.3, and 17q22 not previously described for primary medulloblastoma. Gene expression analysis supported classification of the adult medulloblastoma to the WNT-subgroup and classification of pediatric medulloblastomas to group 3 tumors. Analyses of tumors and matched normal tissues (blood) with a combination of complementary techniques will help to further elucidate potentially causal genetic events for medulloblastomas.

Today medulloblastoma as a typical tumor in children has only limited therapeutic options. Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) has emerged as a promising anti-neoplastic cytokine with little side effects on normal cells. However, since primary cells from solid tumors are mostly TRAIL-resistant, combinatorial protocols have been intensively tested to restore TRAIL-sensitivity in these tumor cells. Especially “targeted therapies” like proteasome-, methyltransferase- or HDAC-inhibition have demonstrated synergistic effects with TRAIL in apoptosis induction in medulloblastoma cell lines. By directed reactivation of suppressed apoptotic pathways (e.g. caspase-8 silencing), substances like bortezomib, 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine or valproic acid potentiate TRAIL-induced apoptosis in tumor cells with negligible side effects on normal cells. Revealing the precise molecular mechanisms of TRAIL sensitization by these novel drugs will help to more precisely design an effective TRAIL-based therapy for an individual tumor within an individual patient. With a huge amount of promising preclinical data, the clinical benefit of these combinatorial strategies for medulloblastoma treatment still needs to be demonstrated.

Astrocytomas represent the largest and most common subgroup of brain tumors. Anaplastic astrocytoma (WHO grade III) may arise from low-grade diffuse astrocytoma (WHO grade II) or as primary tumors without any precursor lesion. Comprehensive analyses of anaplastic astrocytomas combining both cytogenetic and molecular cytogenetic techniques are rare. Therefore, we analyzed genomic alterations of five anaplastic astrocytomas using high-density single nucleotide polymorphism arrays combined with GTG-banding and FISH-techniques. By cytogenetics, we found 169 structural chromosomal aberrations most frequently involving chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 4, 10, and 12, including two not previously described alterations, a nonreciprocal translocation t(3;11)(p12;q13), and one interstitial chromosomal deletion del(2)(q21q31). Additionally, we detected previously not documented loss of heterozygosity (LOH) without copy number changes in 4/5 anaplastic astrocytomas on chromosome regions 5q11.2, 5q22.1, 6q21, 7q21.11, 7q31.33, 8q11.22, 14q21.1, 17q21.31, and 17q22, suggesting segmental uniparental disomy (UPD), applying high-density single nucleotide polymorphism arrays. UPDs are currently considered to play an important role in the initiation and progression of different malignancies. The significance of previously not described genetic alterations in anaplastic astrocytomas presented here needs to be confirmed in a larger series.

Meningiomas are classified as benign, atypical, or anaplastic. The majority are sporadic, solitary, and benign tumors with favorable prognoses. However, the prognosis for patients with anaplastic meningiomas remains less favorable. High resolution genomic profiling has the capacity to provide more detailed information. Therefore, we analyzed genomic aberrations of benign and atypical meningiomas using single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array, combined with G-banding by trypsin using Giemsa stain (GTG banding), spectral karyotyping, and locus-specific fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). We confirmed frequently detected chromosomal aberrations in meningiomas and identified novel genetic events. Applying SNP array, we identified constitutional de novo loss or gain within chromosome 22 in three patients, possibly representing inherited causal events for meningioma formation. We show evidence for somatic segmental uniparental disomy in regions 4p16.1, 7q31.2, 8p23.2, and 9p22.1 not previously described for primary meningioma. GTG-banding and spectral karyotyping detected a novel balanced reciprocal translocation t(4;10)(q12;q26) in one benign meningioma. A paracentric inversion within 1p36, previously described as novel, was detected as a recurrent chromosomal aberration in benign and atypical meningiomas. Analyses of tumors and matched normal tissues with a combination of SNP arrays and complementary techniques will help to further elucidate potentially causal genetic events for tumorigenesis of meningioma.

The tumor entity of hemangiopericytoma is not universally recognized as a nosological entity by pathologists, and there is a trend toward reassigning it to other categories gradually. However, hemangiopericytomas occurring in the nervous system are included in the new WHO classification of brain tumors, and are distinguished from both meningioma and fibrous tumors. Since there are few genetic studies, we performed a comprehensive cytogenetic analysis of an infratentorial hemangiopericytoma in a 55-year-old female. It was originally classified as a grade II tumor but recurred as a grade III tumor with a proliferation index of 20%. Using trypsin-Giemsa staining (GTG-banding) and multicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization (M-FISH), we could confirm the loss of chromosomal material 10q, which has been previously described in hemangiopericytoma, and we identified de novo chromosomal aberrations on chromosome 8. Applying genome-wide high-density single nucleotide polymorphism array (SNP-A) analysis, we detected segments with loss or gain, as well as clonal deletions or regions suggestive of segmental uniparental disomy. These findings, together with the results of conventional histological and immunohistochemical characterization, provide additional evidence for the nosological separation of hemangiopericytoma in the central nervous system as a biologically different entity.

To detect novel genetic alterations, many astrocytomas have been investigated by comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). To identify aberration profiles characteristic of World Health Organization (WHO) grade I, II, III, and IV astrocytoma, we performed a meta-analysis of detailed genome wide CGH data of all 467 cases published so far. After expansion of all given aberrations to the maximum of 850 GTG-band resolution, the frequencies of genetic imbalances were calculated for each chromosomal band, separately for all four WHO grades. Low-grade astrocytoma has already demonstrated one characteristic of glioblastoma multiforme, gain of chromosome 7 with a hot spot at 7q32, but without loss of chromosome 10. In anaplastic astrocytoma, a more complex aberration pattern emerges from diffuse genetic imbalances. Gains of 7q32–q36 and 7p12 become the most frequent aberrations at chromosome 7. In glioblastoma multiforme, coarse aberrations like +7, −9p, −10, and −13 represent the most frequent aberrations as a characteristic pattern. In contrast to lower tumor grades, glioblastoma multiforme demonstrates +7p12 as the most frequently affected band on chromosome 7. To quantify the gradual transition from WHO grade II–IV astrocytoma, we calculated the relative increase and decrease in frequency for each detected aberration of the tumor genome. The most pronounced and diverse changes of genetic material occur at the virtual transition from low-grade to anaplastic astrocytoma. Further transition to glioblastoma multiforme is characterized by gain of 1p, chromosome 7, and loss of chromosome 10. Summing up, the expansion of the CGH results to the 850 GTG-band resolution enabled a meta-analysis to visualize WHO grade-specific aberration profiles in astrocytoma.

OBJECTIVE: According to current outcomes research programs, assessment of a broad spectrum of parameters, including quality of life indices, is required to adequately reflect the results of a given treatment. We performed a comprehensive evaluation in patients after supratentorial meningioma surgery in a retrospective study. METHODS: In 91 consecutive patients, outcome was assessed in individual sessions in patients' homes an average of 15 months (standard deviation, +/- 3.6 months) after surgery. The survey included tests of cognitive performance, coping strategies, satisfaction with life, and a structured interview. RESULTS: We found a significant negative correlation between patient age and cognitive performance (P < 0.001), with a major decline beginning at the age of 55 years. Despite normal cognitive performance, 73% of younger patients (younger than 55 years) compared with 20% of older patients (P < 0.001) were not satisfied with life. As a major problem, 68% of younger patients described an inability to accept having this severe disease as a young person. Patients living as singles had a higher frequency of depressive coping (P < 0.05) and less satisfaction with life (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Comprehensive evaluation after meningioma surgery is required to prevent poor long-term results after apparently successful surgery. In our study, tests and structured interviews revealed different aspects, especially concerning patient age. Because demographic variables clearly influenced satisfaction with life, evaluation of quality of life must account for these factors to improve comparison of different studies. However, prospective studies with larger cohorts and control groups are required to prove our hypotheses.

Most meningiomas, accounting for about 20% of intracranial tumors, can be cured by surgical removal. Yet, 8-22% of these tumors are classified as atypical or anaplastic (WHO grade II or III, respectively) presenting with a more aggressive behavior and a high relapse rate. We analyzed genomic alterations of an atypical meningioma using high-density single nucleotide polymorphism arrays (SNP-A) karyotyping combined with GTG-banding, multicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization (M-FISH), and locus-specific FISH. In accordance to recent studies applying SNP-A karyotyping in different malignancies we found that genomic lesions are present at a higher frequency than predicted by traditional cytogenetics. Most of these aberrations have not been described before. Additionally, we unveiled loss of heterozygosity (LOH) without copy number changes on chromosome regions 1p31.1, 2p16.1, 2q23.3, 6q14.1, 6q21, 9p21.1, 10q21.1, and 14q23.3, suggesting partial uniparental disomy (UPD). UPDs are currently considered to play an important role in the initiation and progression of different malignancies. Furthermore, we detected two de novo reciprocal translocations, t(8;19)(q24;q13) and t(10;16)(q22;q12.1). While GTG-banding and M-FISH data suggested balanced translocations, SNP-A analysis clearly demonstrated imbalances in the same region.

Medulloblastoma is a malignant invasive embryonal tumor, occurring in children mainly. It is rare in adults (1% of adult brain tumors), and so comprehensive cytogenetic and molecular biological data on adult medulloblastomas are very limited. Conventional therapies provide disappointing long-term disease control, and new therapeutic options are being tested. We performed comprehensive cytogenetic analyses of an adult medulloblastoma, WHO grade IV, using trypsin-Giemsa staining (GTG-banding), multicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization (M-FISH), and locus-specific FISH, complemented by molecular karyotyping using high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) arrays. GTG-banding of 25 metaphases revealed 31 structural chromosomal aberrations, predominantly located on chromosomes 4q, 9q, 10q, 11p, and 20q, which were confirmed by M-FISH. Two novel, so far not described translocations were found: t(4;11)(q25;p15) and t(9;20)(p23;p12). GTG-banding, locus-specific FISH, and M-FISH detected numerical changes of chromosomes 8, 14, 18, 19, 20, 21, and 22. Molecular karyotyping by SNP array confirmed chromosomal changes -2p, -10q, -16q, and -Xq and revealed de novo partial uniparental disomy 1q and 9q. Applying an upcoming therapeutic approach, we found that primary medulloblastoma cells were resistant to TRAIL, a novel anticancer cytokine, but could be efficiently sensitized by cotreatment with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib. Bortezomib-TRAIL cotreatment may serve as a powerful therapeutic option for medulloblastoma patients.

Purpose: Malignant gliomas are the most aggressive human brain tumors without any curative treatment. The antitumor effect of tumor necrosis factor–related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) in gliomas has thus far only been thoroughly established in tumor cell lines. In the present study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of TRAIL in primary human glioma cells. Experimental Design: We isolated primary tumor cells from 13 astrocytoma and oligoastrocytoma patients of all four WHO grades of malignancy and compared the levels of TRAIL-induced apoptosis induction, long-term tumor cell survival, caspase, and caspase target cleavage. Results: We established a stable culture model for isolated primary human glioma cells. In contrast to cell lines, isolated primary tumor cells from all investigated glioma patients were highly TRAIL resistant. Regardless of the tumor heterogeneity, cotreatment with the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib efficiently sensitized all primary glioma samples for TRAIL-induced apoptosis and tremendously reduced their clonogenic survival. Due to the pleiotropic effect of bortezomibenhanced TRAIL DISC formation upon TRAIL triggering, down-regulation of cFLIPL and activation of the intrinsic apoptosis pathway seem to cooperatively contribute to the antitumor effect of bortezomib/TRAIL cotreatment. Conclusion: TRAIL sensitivity of tumor cell lines is not a reliable predictor for the behavior of primary tumor cells. The widespread TRAIL resistance in primary glioma cells described here questions the therapeutic clinical benefit of TRAIL as a monotherapeutic agent. Overcoming TRAIL resistance by bortezomib cotreatment might, however, provide a powerful therapeutic option for glioma patients.

Esthesioneuroblastoma is a malignant neuroectodermal tumor originating from olfactory epithelial cells in the nasal vault. Due to the rarity of this tumor entity, cytogenetic data are very limited. Therefore, we performed comprehensive cytogenetic analyses of an esthesioneuroblastoma, Hyam's grade III-IV, using trypsin-Giemsa staining (GTG banding), multicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization (M-FISH), and locus-specific FISH complemented by molecular karyotyping using high-density single nucleotide polymorphism arrays. GTG banding of 25 metaphases revealed 54 structural intrachromosomal aberrations, predominantly located on 2q, 6q, 21q, and 22q, which were confirmed by FISH analysis. Interestingly, we found two novel, so far not described deletions, del(2)(q37) and del(21)(q22). Using GTG banding, locus-specific FISH, and M-FISH, we detected numeric changes of chromosomes 5, 17, 19, and 22, as well as trisomy 8 at low frequency. Applying SNP array karyotyping, we confirmed the chromosomal aberrations del(2)(q37.3), del(3)(q27.2), del(10)(q26.11), chromosomal imbalance on 17q, del(21)(q22), and revealed a number of so far unknown aberrations (gain of 2q14.3, 13q33.3, and 13q34). While the cytogenetically revealed low frequency mosaic del(6)(q22q24) was not visible using SNP array karyotyping, some of the smaller imbalances (SNP array data) could not have been detected by classic cytogenetic analysis. Therefore, our study supports the usefulness of applying complementary methods for cytogenetic analysis.

Many oligodendrogliomas (ODG) have been investigated by comparative genomic hybridization (CGH). To visualize characteristic aberration profiles of non-anaplastic in a comparison with anaplastic ODGs, we performed a meta-analysis of the CGH results of all 89 cases published so far. Therefore, we expanded all given aberrations to the maximum of 850 GTG band resolution. The frequencies of each chromosomal band affected by a genetic imbalance were calculated for WHO grades II and III separately. In non-anaplastic ODGs, −1p and −19q were the most prominent aberrations. In anaplastic ODGs, +7, −4q, −9p, −10, and −15q emerged additionally. We could confirm the existence of three disjunct genetically defined subgroups of ODGs, characterized by −1p/−19q ( n =58, 65%, subgroup A), +7/−10 ( n =6, 7%, subgroup B) or the absence of either of the two patterns ( n =25, 28%, subgroup C). Interestingly, we found a unique aberration pattern in subgroup C (−1p31, −4q, −11p15, −18q, −22q, +17p, +17q) that was different from subgroups A and B, which could indicate a unique molecular carcinogenetic pathway of this ODG subset. Scrutinizing published putative progression markers of ODG, we found that only +7, −10, and −15q significantly correlated with a higher grade of malignancy. Summing up, the expansion of the CGH results to the 850 GTG band resolution enabled a meta-analysis to visualize WHO grade-specific aberration profiles in ODG for the first time.

A case of partial deletion of the distal parts of chromosomes 15 and 18 [(15)(q26.1)(18)(q21.3)] due to a de novo translocation is reported. Cordocentesis and fetal karyotyping was done because of severe oligohydramnios and bilateral absence of kidneys. Renal defects are a frequent finding in fetuses with different chromosomal anomalies; this particular chromosomal rearrangement however has not been reported yet in a fetus with bilateral renal agenesis. FISH was performed for detailed clarification of the chromosomal anomaly. Prenatal karyotyping appears to be important in fetuses with renal agenesis.

Introduction We report a case of tumor growth over a period of four decades, presenting with large multicentric lytic lesions of the skull and a profound mass effect, without neurological deficits. Clinical and radiological features of a patient with a giant intradiploic epidermoid and its impact on the choice of treatments are discussed. Case presentation An 81-year-old Caucasian man, who had first noticed a painless subcutaneous swelling over the left frontal scalp about 40 years ago, presented after a short episode of dizziness, which he experienced after treatment of focal retinal detachment. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations revealed an exceptionally large tumor involving major parts of the skull with extensive destruction of the bone and distinct deformation of the brain. Considering his age and the absence of neurological deficits or pain, the patient refused the option of tumor removal and cranioplasty, yet agreed to a biopsy, which confirmed the suspected diagnosis. Conclusions The course of the disease demonstrates that even patients with large tumors, inducing distinct pathomorphological changes, do not necessarily experience significant impairment of their quality of life without surgery. This is an impressive example of the chance to lead a long and satisfying life without specific medical treatment, avoiding the inherent risks of these procedures. Yet, there is a clear indication for surgery of intradiploic epidermoids in most cases described in the literature.

Chromosomal aberrations were comparatively assessed in nuclei extracted from synovial tissue, primary-culture (P-0) synovial cells, and early-passage synovial fibroblasts (SFB; 98% enrichment; P-1, P-4 [passage 1, passage 4]) from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA; n = 21), osteoarthritis (OA; n = 24), and other rheumatic diseases. Peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBL) and skin fibroblasts (FB) (P-1, P-4) from the same patients, as well as SFB from normal joints and patients with joint trauma (JT) (n = 4), were used as controls. Analyses proceeded by standard GTG-banding and interphase centromere fluorescence in situ hybridization. Structural chromosomal aberrations were observed in SFB (P-1 or P-4) from 4 of 21 RA patients (19%), with involvement of chromosome 1 [e.g. del(1)(q12)] in 3 of 4 cases. In 10 of the 21 RA cases (48%), polysomy 7 was observed in P-1 SFB. In addition, aneusomies of chromosomes 4, 6, 8, 9, 12, 18, and Y were present. The percentage of polysomies was increased in P-4. Similar chromosomal aberrations were detected in SFB of OA and spondylarthropathy patients. No aberrations were detected in i) PBL or skin FB from the same patients (except for one OA patient with a karyotype 45,X[10]/46,XX[17] in PBL and variable polysomies in long-term culture skin FB); or ii) synovial tissue and/or P-1 SFB of normal joints or of patients with joint trauma. In conclusion, qualitatively comparable chromosomal aberrations were observed in synovial tissue and early-passage SFB of patients with RA, OA, and other inflammatory joint diseases. Thus, although of possible functional relevance for the pathologic role of SFB in RA, these alterations probably reflect a common response to chronic inflammatory stress in rheumatic diseases.