Brain-wide network links prognosis to pediatric diffuse midline glioma survival
Researchers mapped the brain-wide connectivity of pediatric diffuse midline gliomas (DMG) and defined a conserved DMG network whose connectivity to each patient’s tumor independently predicts overall survival across two external validation cohorts. The DMG network shows tumor growth trajectories and metabolic changes that peak within development-aligned windows, with single-nucleus RNA-seq revealing enriched synaptic genes in high-connectivity DMG. Structural-connectome analyses reproduce the network, spinal metastases preferentially involve DMG network nodes, and incidental resection of high-connectivity tissue is associated with longer survival, suggesting DMGs exploit intact brain circuits. Together, these findings propose a prognostic brain network in DMG that could inform surgical strategies and future therapies.