Neuroblastoma: Biology of a tumour model

Neuroblastoma, a childhood tumour of high malignant potential, nevertheless may regress spontaneously in some individuals. Research into the molecular biology and biochemistry of this tumour may therefore provide useful insights into the mechanisms of tumour behaviour and ultimately improve treatment outcomes. Genetic aspects of neuroblastoma, including ploidy changes, deletions of chromosome arms 1p, 11q and 14q, gain of chromosome arm 17q, amplification of the oncogene MYCN, alterations in apoptosis and neurotrophin signalling pathways have all been identified and great progress has been made in relating these abnormalities to tumour behaviour. Knowledge of the catecholamine metabolic pathways has enabled improved detection and screening methods. Application of this information in the clinical field has encouraged the development of a range of new laboratory tests.