According to GlobeNewswire, BridgeBio Pharmaceuticals and the Ivy Brain Tumor Center have recently began their Phase 0/2 trial of infigratinib. This treatment is meant for those with recurrent glioblastoma that is driven by FGFR mutations. This phase will assess the medication’s ability to cross the blood-brain barrier.
About Glioblastoma
Glioblastoma is a form of brain tumor that forms from the astrocyte cells in the brain. Males are more susceptible than females to this cancer. While medical professionals are unsure as to what causes glioblastoma, they have identified certain risk factors. These include preexisting genetic conditions and previous treatment with radiation therapy. Regardless of the cause, affected individuals will experience symptoms like seizures, vomiting, headaches, issues with thinking or speaking, double or blurred vision, and changes in mood.
A neurologist will diagnose this cancer, and they will do so through a clinical exam, CT scan, tissue biopsy, and MRI. After a diagnosis is obtained, there are four treatment options. They are often combined. Doctors may use surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and electric-field therapy to slow and control tumor growth.
Infigratinib for Glioblastoma
Infigratinib is an oral FGFR1-3 selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor. BridgeBio developed it and it has previously been tested for recurrent gliomas. The current study is intended to understand which glioblastoma patients may benefit from this medication and how effectively it can cross the blood-brain barrier.
Participants in this trial were screened for certain mutations, such as altered FGFR1 and FGFR3 genes. Researchers also looked for the FGFR-TACC3 fusion gene. These three genes have been found to spur tumor growth. If they are dosed and experience tumor penetration, they will be able to move on to the phase 2 extension of the trial. There, they will receive long-term treatment and be assessed for progression-free survival.
This study will show whether infigratinib is a viable treatment for those with glioblastoma. If successful, it will provide another treatment option for those with this deadly cancer.
