Expression of stem cell marker nestin and MicroRNA-21 in meningiomas

Abstract

Aim: Meningiomas are one of the most common benign intracranial tumors, making up nearly one third of all primary intracranial tumors. The majority of meningiomas have benign histological features and total resection is associated with favourable prognosis. Atypical and malignant meningiomas are associated with increased risk of recurrence. In the present study we set out to investigate the role of nestin mRNA levels and miR-21 in meningiomas. Material and Methods: We studied 17 patients with meningiomas that were treated surgically in our institute. Clinical variables that were analyzed were age, sex and histology. The expression of stem cell marker nestin mRNA levels and miR-21 was investigated in tissue samples by qRT-PCR. Results: Considerable levels of both miR-21 and nestin mRNA were found. Atypical and anaplastic meningiomas had higher expression of both miR-21 and nestin compared to benign tumors. Furthermore, a trend towards a positive correlation between miR-21 and nestin mRNA levels was also found. Conclusion: Increased miR-21 and nestin mRNA levels were found in anaplastic meningiomas, in which recurrence is common, and the role of miR-21 and Nestin in meningiomas therefore warrants further investigation.