Metabolomics and Transcriptomics of Low- and High-Grade Gliomas

The goal of this observational study is to better define the molecular profile of rare brain tumors (gliomas) based on the levels of their metabolites and transcripts (the intermediate step between DNA information and proteins). The main question it aims to answer is to identify new brain tumour subgroups of clinical relevance that might explain the very different history these patients might follow. Additionally, studies on gliomas require cellular cultures and animal models for the development of new medications, but these models are still scarce and rudimental for many types of gliomas. The second aim of this study is to implement better models for these tumors, for a more effective development of new medications. Patients enrolled in this study will not undergo any additional procedures with respect to those necessary for gold-standard management of these brain tumors. A small sample of the resected tumour will be used for advanced analyses investigating the metabolic and transcriptomic profile and used for temptative establishment of cellular cultures and animal models of these pathologies.

Inclusion Criteria: * Subjects who sign the informed consent form for study participation * Males and females * Age ≥ 18 years * Patients with a radiological diagnosis of central nervous system enlargement on routine preoperative clinical imaging (MRI/PET) who will attend the OU outpatient clinics or the OGSA Emergency Department and are candidates for surgery * Availability of medical history. Exclusion Criteria: * Age \< 18 years * Subjects unable to understand and freely provide consent to the study * Current pregnancy and/or breastfeeding (self-declaration).