About Gliogene

Brain tumors are rare, and we don't yet fully understand them. Very few appear to be hereditary, yet most brain tumors are associated with changes in an individual's genes. Gliogene is the largest genetic study of glioma in families, and aims to learn more about the heritable genes that may contribute to brain tumors.

Findings So Far

Since the study began in January 2007, Gliogene has screened over 13,000 patients' family histories and discovered 850 families with two or more relatives with reported gliomas. Over 3,000 glioma patients and their relatives have participated.

To date, we have completed genetic analysis on 70 families. We analyzed 101 glioma patient samples from enrolled families, and found that individuals with mutations for the gene p16 may have a higher risk for pancreatic cancer and melanoma, while individuals with a p53 mutation may be more susceptible to cancer development and Li-Fraumeni syndrome.

If you participate in Gliogene, we'll send you information about our latest findings and results. Gliogene has revealed several previously-unknown biomarkers for glioma, including markers that may be more relevant to certain individuals. Some genes appear to be associated with glioma largely in men, while other genes are more predictive in women.

Additionally, Gliogene has identified regions of the genome that are more closely associated with particular glioma subtypes.

How Does Gliogene Help?

Participating in research is crucial to advancing our understanding of diseases. By answering our questions and providing samples, you'll allow us to find common genes amongst individuals with glioma that may help us identify who's most at risk for developing these tumors, and create effective screening methods for early detection of the disease.