Advances in Genomics and Epigenetics of Glioma

Malignant gliomas are the most treatment-resistant cancers in the central nervous system. In recent years, genome-wide molecular-profiling studies, including exome sequencing and DNA methylation microarray, have revealed the characteristic genetic alterations and epigenetic profiles in different types of gliomas. As mentioned earlier, GBM was classified into four groups based on molecular characteristics: proneuronal, neuronal, classical, and mesenchymal. Further, many studies showed that IDH1/IDH2 mutations, 1p/19q deletions, and TERTp mutations are important biomarkers for glioma classification. They could improve the prediction of patient outcomes and guide individualized treatment. Herein, we highlight the developments of the molecular genetics and epigenetics, including gene mutations, methylation, histone modifications, noncoding RNA, and other epigenetic insights in gliomas. We also reviewed the current landscape of biomarkers used in this disease. Novel approaches to the genetic and epigenetic characterization of gliomas based on large-scale DNA-methylation profiling and next-generation sequencing are also discussed. It provides an overview of how these advances will help clinicians gain deep understanding of glioma development and provide new ideas for precision therapies.