Work

Inaccurate interpretation of hypoxia signatures from transcriptomic analyses in neuro-oncology

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: We aim to highlight problems with the biological interpretation of computationally-derived hypoxia signatures for neuro-oncology research. By reviewing important experimental work in the field, we discuss common misinterpretations of the concepts of normoxia and hypoxia. In fact, the concentration of oxygen in the adult brain is in the range of 1-7%. Unfortunately, this oxygen concentration range is often mistakenly considered hypoxic in neuro-oncology experiments, although it should be considered physioxic. Further, given the lack of a universal hypoxic signature, we stress the importance of deriving cell type-specific hypoxic signatures using carefully-executed experiments.

Source: Neoplasia

DOI: 10.1016/j.neo.2026.101327

Authors: Rebecca K Simmons, Pratima Raut, Subhi Talal Younes, Marco Gallo

Institutions: Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Dan L Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center

Language: English

Topic: Cancer, Hypoxia, and Metabolism

Subfield: Cancer Research

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,530