Unconnected glioblastoma cells, particularly those with neuronal and neural-progenitor-like characteristics, are the main drivers of brain invasion. These cells receive synaptic input from neurons, which stimulates the formation of tumor microtubes and accelerates their Lévy-like movement pattern, enabling them to efficiently colonize new brain regions.

F.W. and W.W. hold a patent related to glioma treatment and F.W. is co-founder of a company developing glioma medications, which also provides research funding to his lab.

This study presents novel insights into the mechanisms driving glioblastoma invasion, connecting molecular cell states with functional behavior and highlighting the role of neuronal mechanisms. The multi-modal approach, combining in vivo imaging and single-cell transcriptomics, is a strength. However, the reliance on mouse models and some limitations in sample size necessitate further validation in human systems.