The study shows that gliomas attack computational power from the brain by parasitizing neural plasticity, so as to grow at the expense of cognitive function.” This disrupted neuronal circuitry of the brain may in part account for the frequent manifestation of cognitive decline associated with progression of gliomas. Higher functional connectivity, as determined by magnetoencephalography, indicating more tumor-neuronal networking, was associated with more cognitive decline and worse survival. Taking this work considerably further, through 3-D organoid culture, tumor cells and mouse brain, the pivotal role of thrombospondin -1 (TSP-1), a protein participant of synapse formation, was demonstrated along with the potential of blocking this protein to reduce cognitive decline.
Intriguing, here is the original Nature article link:
I will later do a critical appraisal of this study but this linkage has important implications for understanding the course of glioblastomas and perhaps usher rethinking of other diseases?
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