One of the most challenging scientific problems in brain tumor research is finding a cure for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). The incidence of primary brain tumors has increased dramatically over the past several decades. More that 18,000 patients are diagnosed in the USA and more than half a million worldwide [Brandess AA. Semin Oncol. 2003; 30 (suppl 19): 4-9]. In the pediatric population, primary brain tumors are second in frequency to leukemia and have shown a significant increase in recent years [Bleyer WA. Childs Nerv Syst. 1999:15:758-763].

Primary brain tumors currently account for about 22% of all pediatric malignancies. About 50% of these are astrocytic gliomas [Ganigi PM. et. al., Pediatric Neurosurgery. 2005; 41:292-299]. Despite major improvements in therapeutic modalities such as neurosurgery, radiation and chemotherapy, not only have we failed to cure GBM, but the use of these therapies often leads to severe and debilitating side effects.