Pathogenesis and imaging of neuroblastoma metastases

• Applicants: Dr. Dorde Komljenovic, since 10/2013; Privatdozent Dr. Frank Westermann
• Co-Applicant: Professor Isaac Witz
• Subject Area: Clinical Neurology; Neurosurgery and Neuroradiology
• Term: from 2012 to 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 213821004

Neuroblastoma is a clinically heterogeneous disease with the likelihood of cure varying widely according to age at diagnosis, extend of disease, and tumor biology. A subset of tumors will undergo spontaneous regression while others show relentless local progression and metastases. Approximately half of all cases are currently classified as high-risk for disease relapse, with overall survival rates less than 40% despite intensive multimodal therapy. Poor survival rates are mainly due to the lack of therapeutic options specifically targeting metastases. There is ample evidence that dormant tumor cells (micrometastases) may be present in the circulation and in particular organs long before overt metastasis Is formed in these target organs. Tumor intrinsic as well as microenvironmental factors from the homing organs are likely to control the process of metastasis formation. The goal of this proposal is to elucidate molecular mechanisms of metastasis formation from micrometastasis. Interfering with this process could pave the way for new therapeutic options for high-risk neuroblastomas.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Israel
• Ehemaliger Antragsteller: Professor Dr. Tobias Bäuerle, until 10/2013