Ependymoma models

Abstract

Experimental neurocarcinogenesis using chemical agents or certain viruses can get brain tumors; some of them have been considered classically as ependymomas according to their histological aspects. However, it is now accepted that these tumors do not meet a clear criteria to be considered as ependymoma models. Xenografts of human ependymomas in nude mouse are most useful models, but they have the disadvantage that the absence of host immune response may mask important aspects currently considered in the biology of brain tumors. © 2013 Springer Science+Business Media New York.