Abstract
BACKGROUND
Medulloblastoma (MB) was classified to 4 molecular subgroups: WNT, SHH, group 3 (G3), and group 4 (G4) with the demographic and clinical differences. In 2017, The heterogeneity within MB was proposed, and 12 subtypes with distinct molecular and clinical characteristics.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: PATIENTS AND METHODS
We retrieved 52 MBs in children to perform RNA-Seq and DNA methylation array. Subtype cluster analysis performed by similarity network fusion (SNF) method. With clinical results and molecular profiles, the characteristics including age, gender, histological variants, tumor location, metastasis status, survival, cytogenetic and genetic aberrations among MB subtypes were identified.
RESULTS
In this cohort series, 52 childhood MBs were classified into 11 subtypes by SNF cluster analysis. WNT tumors shown no metastasis and 100% survival rate. All WNT tumors located on midline in 4th ventricle. Monosomy 6 presented in WNT α, but not in β subtype. SHH α and β occurred in children, while SHH γ in infant. Among SHH tumors, α subtype showed the worst outcome. G3 γ showed the highest metastatic rate and worst survival associated with MYC amplification. G4 α has the highest metastatic rate, however G4 γ showed the worst survival.
CONCLUSION
We identified molecular subgroups and subtypes of MBs based on gene expression and DNA methylation profile in children in our cohort series. The results may contribute to the establishment of nation-wide correlated optimal diagnosis and treatment strategies for MBs in infant and children.
Batch Effects and Pathway Analysis: Two Potential Perils in Cancer Studies Involving DNA Methylation Array Analysis
