The Study of Brain Tumor Stem Cell Migration

Abstract

Despite many advancements in brain cancer therapeutics, brain cancer remains one of the most elusive diseases with high migratory capacity and a dismal prognosis. It is well established that tumor stem cells utilize the same available migratory machinery that normal cells employ. Some of the major determinants of brain tumor stem cell migration are their cytoskeletal rearrangements and adhesion dynamics. This phenomenon allows brain tumor stem cells to perpetually migrate, invade, and repopulate in a vicious cycle leading to tumor expansion and invasion at tumor boundaries. In order to dissect the enabling factors that allow for this process to be hijacked, we have identified relevant assays to enable measurements of neoplastic migration such as Boyden Chamber, 3D chemogradient chamber, Nanopattern, and wound healing assays. Our purpose is to report the complex experimental platforms seen in the literature today and provide an optimal platform to kick off your studies in this field.