Stem cells can divide into specialized cell types or more stem cells. They are found in organs like the liver, lungs and colon as well as the brain where they are called glia. Gliomas are brain or spine tumors that resemble glia cells. Glioblastoma multiform is the most common and dangerous glioma tumor. Researchers presented findings showing that adding miRNA to glioma tumor cells can make them vulnerable to chemotherapy, which previously had little effect. These results could help develop treatments to cure glioma tumors and provide insights for cancer and neurological research.

1. Seminar 1: Stem Cells
Wilmarie Morales
During this seminar we were able to learn about recent studies being done with glioma
tumors and stem cell biology. Jessian, our presenter for the day, made the presentation easier
to follow by using images and tables along with his explanations. A few things we learned in the
presentation were that stem cells are biological cells found in all multicellular organisms, that
can divide into, either, diverse specialized cell types or more stem cells. Stem cells can be found
in almost any vital organ in the body, like: the liver, lungs and colon. Stem cells can also be
found in the brain, and are called glia. Gliomas are a type of tumor that start in the brain or
spine. Gliomas have a very strong resemblance to glia cells. Glioblastoma multiform is the most
common and most dangerous of these tumors.
In the seminar we were informed that these tumors are chemo resistant and therefore
mortal. Currently researchers are trying to find a way to make these tumors susceptible to
chemotherapy. They are trying to do this through the sonic hedgehog pathway and miRNA.
Results of several experiments have confirmed that by adding miRNA to these cells they can
become vulnerable to chemotherapy.
These results have a profound significance for science. With these findings it may be
possible to find a way to treat and even cure the occurrence of glioma tumors. Not only do
these findings have an impact for further studies done on glioma tumors, but also for future
research that is being done in the fields of oncology (in finding new innovative treatments for

2. several other cancers) and neurology (using the knowledge of regenerating brain cells to treat
many neurological diseases).