Deciphering the Molecular Characteristics of Pediatric Meningiomas

Meningiomas are the most common tumors occurring in the brain and spine. About 80% of them show benign features responsive to surgery alone. 20%, however, require extensive treatment including repeat surgery, radiation, and/or chemotherapy, and in many cases the tumors still recur. Pediatric meningiomas, however, are extremely rare tumors and are often of the more aggressive form. It is thought that the underlying biology of pediatric meningiomas is different from their adult counterparts, and this study seeks to investigate those differences. Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS), which identifies the base chemicals that make up DNA, will be carried out on specimens from the Pediatric Brain Tumor Atlas. Researchers aim to gain a deeper understanding of pediatric meningiomas that could establish new therapies designed specifically for the pediatric population.