Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods of treating a primary brain tumor and preventing the migratory spread of a primary brain tumor in a subject. These methods involve utilizing the CD24 surface protein selectively expressed on tumor progenitor cells as a therapeutic target as well as a means for directing oncolytic therapeutics directly to the tumor site. The present invention further relates to methods of diagnosing the presence of a brain tumor and monitoring the status of the brain tumor in a subject based on CD24 expression in tumor progenitor cells.