Figure 1. Bidirectional signaling between neurons and gliomas promote glioma growth.

Neuronal activity promotes glioma proliferation and growth through activity-regulated secretion of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), soluble neuroligin-3 (NLGN3), glutamate, dopamine and likely other factors. In turn, gliomas encourage neuronal activity through glutamate release, promoting synaptogenesis, and possibly additional mechanisms.