The molecular genetics of astrocytomas: current understanding and future applications.

The prognosis for adult patients with astrocytomas remains poor. In recent years there has been a significant amount of research into the molecular mechanisms underlying the development and progression of these tumours. This review describes some of the oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes that are important in the development of astrocytoma, as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying angiogenesis and invasion. Possible clinical applications are described.