Genetic and epigenetic contribution to astrocytic gliomas pathogenesis

Astrocytic gliomas are the most common and lethal form of intracranial tumors. These tumors are characterized by a significant heterogeneity in terms of cytopathological, transcriptional, and (epi)genomic features. This heterogeneity has made these cancers one of the most challenging types of cancers to study and treat. To uncover these complexities and to have better understanding of the disease initiation and progression, identification, and characterization of underlying cellular and molecular pathways related to (epi)genetics of astrocytic gliomas is crucial. Here, we discuss and summarize molecular and (epi)genetic mechanisms that provide clues as to the pathogenesis of astrocytic gliomas. Astrocytic gliomas among the most important CNS tumors and are associated with a significant disease burden worldwide. Astrocytic glioma is a complex disease and a variety of internal and external risk factors could be related to its initiation and progression. Among various risk factors, deregulation of various mechanisms which could lead to up‐/down‐regulation of genes such as p53, MGMT, EGFR, and MDM2, has a critical role in the progression of astrocytic gliomas. Here, we discuss and summarize molecular and (epi)genetic mechanisms that provide clues as to the pathogenesis of astrocytic gliomas.