Neuroblastoma is a tumor of the peripheral sympathetic nervous system that accounts for approximately 15% of all deaths due to childhood cancer. High-risk neuroblastoma, prevalent in the majority of patients, is rapidly progressive and even with intensive chemotherapy relapse is common. Therefore, novel strategies that exploit genetic alterations in this aggressive cancer need to be sought. We have reported previously unknown mutations that affect key portions of the ALK gene and indicate that ALK has potential as a novel therapeutic target in neuroblastoma.
Fighting childhood cancer, one cup at a time.
