Ongoing Battle: Latest Updates & Cutting-Edge Research in Brain Cancer

A Novel MDM2 Inhibitor?

In many cancers, including glioblastoma (GBM), the tumour suppressor gene p53

(Tp53) is frequently mutated, and its downstream regulators are often inactivated. This can result in amplification and overexpression of oncoproteins such as MDM2. Essentially, MDM2 acts as a brake on p53, preventing it from doing its job effectively. Researchers from Canada tested the efficacy of the MDM2 inhibitor, BI-907828, in GBM patient-derived brain tumour stem cells (in vitro and in orthotopic xenograft models). It was shown that BI-907828 crosses the blood-brain barrier and treatment resulted in tumour death and an increase in survival. It was concluded that BI-907828 provides a promising novel therapeutic option for patients with TP53 wild-type primary brain tumours and that there is a strong rationale to translate it to the clinic for testing.

Genetically Engineered Treatments?

Purdue University researchers are developing and validating a patent-pending treatment for GBM. Essentially, the team is developing a type of immunotherapy based on novel, genetically engineered, fully off-the-shelf, or allogeneic immune cells (cells from a source that is not the patient). The research team tested their novel therapy in a preclinical setting by direct injection of the newly engineered immune cells into mice bearing human brain tumours. Results showed the immune cells to be highly effective in targeting and eliminating the growth of the tumours. Such results hold promise in translating to clinical trials with the team adding they are working with neurosurgical clinician collaborators to not only obtain funding, but also initiate clinical protocols.

References

BI-907828, a novel potent MDM2 inhibitor, inhibits glioblastoma brain tumor stem cells in vitro and prolongs survival in orthotopic xenograft mouse models - PMC (nih.gov)

synNotch-programmed iPSC-derived NK cells usurp TIGIT and CD73 activities for glioblastoma therapy | Nature Communications

Disclaimer: Information in this article is sourced from published articles; readers are advised to independently verify facts. Opinions expressed are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. If you experience symptoms related to brain cancer, consult with a medical professional for personalised advice and guidance.