Review highlights emerging treatments for glioblastoma multiforme

The perspective was led by first and corresponding author Mamunur Rahman from the Department of Pharmacy, East West University, Aftabnagar, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Importantly, none of the emerging approaches reviewed has replaced the current temozolomide-based treatment paradigm. Instead, the evolving strategy is increasingly centered on biomarker-directed combinations, in which targeted, immune-based or metabolic treatments are added for molecularly defined groups of patients.

"The combination of precision molecular targeting with new immune activation methods and CNS-based drug delivery and metabolic interference establishes a foundation for developing combination therapies which should use proven predictive biomarkers for maximum effectiveness."

Overall, the perspective describes a GBM treatment landscape moving from broadly applied cytotoxic approaches toward mechanism-based, biomarker-guided and combination strategies. Molecular targeting, immune activation, gene and oncolytic therapies, metabolic interventions and improved CNS drug delivery are being investigated in parallel, but substantial biological and clinical obstacles remain. Results from ongoing Phase II and III studies will be critical for determining which approaches ultimately advance toward regulatory consideration.

Source:

Oncoscience

Journal reference: