Insights into the molecular roles of FOXR2 in the pathology of primary pediatric brain tumors

Forkhead box gene R2 (FOXR2) belongs to the family of FOX genes which codes for highly conserved transcription factors (TFs) with critical roles in biological processes ranging from development to organogenesis to metabolic and immune regulation to cellular homeostasis. A number of FOX genes are associated with cancer development and progression and poor prognosis. A growing body of evidence suggests that FOXR2 is an oncogene. Studies suggested important roles for FOXR2 in cancer cell growth, metastasis, and drug resistance. Recent studies showed that FOXR2 is overexpressed by a subset of newly identified entities of embryonal tumors. This review discusses the role(s) FOXR2 plays in the pathology of pediatric brain cancers and its potential as a therapeutic target.

Automated summary

FOXR2, a member of the FOX gene family, plays critical roles in various biological processes and is associated with cancer development. It has been shown to be involved in cancer cell growth, metastasis, and drug resistance, and is overexpressed in certain embryonal tumors. This review discusses the roles of FOXR2 in the pathology of pediatric brain cancers and its potential as a therapeutic target.