A targeted therapy to enhance treatment efficacy and neuroprotection in glioblastoma
Background
Although brain cancer is relatively rare, it is one of the most common causes of death in Australians aged 25 and under and is the ninth leading cause of cancer death in all age groups combined. There are many subtypes of brain cancer, the most common and aggressive type of brain cancer in adults is glioblastoma.
Glioblastoma is devastating tumour with few effective treatments and unfortunately, fewer than 5% of people live longer than five years. Whilst there have been advancements in treatment, current treatments often cause extensive damage to the nervous system and significant side effects that impact quality of life.
About the project
Professor Hondermarck and his team aim to enhance the efficacy of current Glioblastoma treatments by repurposing a drug that is already in clinical trials for its ability to protect the nervous system from damage. This novel drug has also been shown to improve the efficacy of chemotherapy and radiotherapy and opens up an avenue for a new treatment option in these patients.
Impact
If successful, this research could improve the efficacy of current brain cancer treatments while minimising damages to the brain. This potential double effect would represent a major advancement in the management of Glioblastoma by simultaneously increasing patient survival and preventing neurological side effects.