Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have developed a groundbreaking model that could transform treatment approaches for recurrent glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of brain tumour that affects 3,200 people annually in the UK. The study, published in EMBO Molecular Medicine, introduces an innovative technique that accurately replicates how glioblastoma tumours recur and evolve after treatment.
The research team, led by Dr Sara Lucchini and Dr James G Nicholson, used implanted human glioblastoma models that mimic the human treatment process. This approach addresses a critical challenge in glioblastoma care: recurrent tumours often have significantly different compositions compared to the original tumour, rendering previously effective therapies ineffective and leaving patients with few treatment options.
Novel Cellular Target Identified
Using their new model, researchers identified a specific type of cell that becomes more prevalent when glioblastoma recurs. These cells are protected by tiny hair-like structures called cilia, which make them more resistant to conventional treatments. The discovery of these ciliated cells represents a significant advancement in understanding the biology of glioblastoma recurrence.
The research team found that targeting these ciliated cells with Mebendazole, a readily available over-the-counter medication commonly used for threadworm treatment, could make them more sensitive to chemotherapy. This finding potentially opens up a wider range of treatment options for patients facing recurrent glioblastoma.
Pathway to Personalized Medicine
Centre Director Professor Silvia Marino emphasized the study's implications for personalized treatment approaches. "This innovative approach not only furthers our understanding of the biology of glioblastoma recurrence but also opens the door to personalised medicine," Marino said. "By analysing the genetic and molecular changes in the recurrent tumours, researchers may be able to identify patient-specific vulnerabilities."
The personalized medicine approach could enable treatments tailored to the unique characteristics of each patient's recurrent tumour, potentially improving treatment success rates when first-line therapy has failed. This represents a significant shift from current treatment paradigms for recurrent glioblastoma.
Clinical Significance and Recognition
The study's importance has been recognized by the scientific community, with EMBO journal editors highlighting the research as a notable 'News & Views' piece. This recognition underscores the potential clinical impact of the findings for glioblastoma patients who have historically faced limited options following tumour recurrence.
The research offers tangible hope for patients with recurrent glioblastoma, a population that has traditionally been left with minimal treatment alternatives. The combination of an improved understanding of recurrence mechanisms and the identification of a repurposed drug target represents a significant step forward in addressing this challenging clinical scenario.
